Zelensky warns of dangerous experience North Korean troops gain in Russia’s war against Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that North Korean soldiers fighting on Russia’s side are gaining critically important experience in modern combat, which they could later use upon returning to North Korea.
He made these remarks in an interview with Kyodo News.
According to the president, around 10,000 North Korean soldiers are currently on Russian territory. Zelensky emphasised that this poses a serious threat, as they are acquiring knowledge about modern hybrid warfare:
"They are learning to counter missiles and various types of drones, including fibre-optic drones, from FPV models to long-range unmanned aerial vehicles," the president said.
"They are training now on Russian soil because we are responding to Russian attacks. So they have this opportunity. What will they do with this knowledge? At the very least, they will bring this experience and expertise home, to North Korea,"Zelensky added.
According to Ukrainian military intelligence, North Korean troops fighting alongside Russia are rapidly transforming from 20th-century-style infantry into specialists in technological warfare. Kim Jong Un’s soldiers have already mastered:
- Operation of combat drones of various classes;
- Advanced radio-electronic reconnaissance systems (SIGINT/ELINT);
- Electronic warfare (EW) capabilities.
This allows North Korea to acquire experience in modern combat technologies, including countering advanced reconnaissance systems and drone strikes.
Experts emphasise that the combat experience gained by North Korean soldiers could increase regional security threats and potentially trigger new conflicts. The knowledge and practical skills acquired significantly enhance the future combat capabilities of the North Korean army.
Ukrainian intelligence also notes that this transformation during the war in Ukraine demonstrates the growing technical competence and adaptability of North Korean forces.
North Korean troops are directly involved in shelling Ukraine, using howitzers, multiple launch rocket systems, and drones. They are also engaged in aerial reconnaissance and strike coordination.
