Kim Jong-un Praises North Korean Troops in New Year’s Message

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — North Korean leader Kim Jong-un praised his troops deployed abroad during a New Year’s message, highlighting an “invincible alliance” with Russia. State media reported his comments Thursday as North Korea continues to support Russia’s nearly four-year invasion of Ukraine.

According to South Korean and Western intelligence sources, North Korea has sent thousands of soldiers to assist Russian forces. This support has resulted in significant casualties, with South Korean estimates indicating at least 600 North Korean soldiers have died and thousands more have been injured.

Kim described the combat environment as an “alien land” while congratulating his men for their “heroic” defense of North Korea’s honor. He urged them to “be brave” and reassured them that both Pyongyang and Moscow stand behind them. “As the whole country is enveloped in a festive atmosphere of greeting the new year, I all the more miss you, who are fighting bravely on the battlefields in the alien land even at this moment,” he said, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

His address suggested further military engagements in the upcoming year, with a mention of the “remarkable feats you will perform on the overseas battlefields.” Analysts note that North Korea’s strengthening military partnership with Russia may offer economic benefits, including financial assistance, advanced military technology, and essential food and energy supplies. These resources could help sustain Kim’s heavily sanctioned regime.

At a lavish event in Pyongyang’s May Day Stadium, Kim celebrated the New Year with performances and speeches, alongside his wife Ri Sol Ju and daughter Ju Ae, who is believed to be his likely successor. Nevertheless, reports from the frontlines indicate dire conditions for North Korean troops. South Korea’s intelligence service suggests some troops have been ordered to commit suicide rather than face capture.

South Korean accounts from two North Korean soldiers, who were captured by Ukrainian forces in January 2025 after being injured, indicate a strong desire to defect to South Korea. This situation underscores the human cost associated with North Korea’s expanding military role abroad.