Published August 23, 2025
North Korean state media reported on Thursday that communist dictator Kim Jong-un held a special event to honor his commanding officers in charge of North Korean troops aiding the Russian invasion of Ukraine, offering “warm militant encouragement” and applause for their alleged success on the battlefield.
Ceremony in Pyongyang: Honor and Emotion
On August 22, 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un presided over a high-profile ceremony in Pyongyang honoring soldiers and commanders who participated in operations alongside Russian forces in the war in Ukraine. State media reported that the event included awards for returning troops, public mourning for the fallen, and formal commendations.
At the event, Kim delivered a forceful declaration that “the most powerful army in the world” is North Korea’s, praising the soldiers’ performance in Ukraine-related operations.
Human Toll: Losses Acknowledged
The ceremony featured a solemn tribute to over 100 soldiers confirmed dead—portrayed as martyrs—with their portraits displayed publicly. Family members of the fallen were in attendance, and Kim was visibly emotional in some reports. Meanwhile, Western and South Korean intelligence suggest thousands more may have been wounded, with estimates of total casualties potentially much higher.
Military Backing for Russia and Strategic Alliance
The deployment of North Korean soldiers to Russia’s Kursk region aligns with a broader pattern of deepening Moscow–Pyongyang ties. Reports indicate more than 10,000 troops have been sent, supplemented by artillery, missiles, and long-range rockets.
This military cooperation follows a strategic partnership and mutual defense pact signed between Kim and Russian President Vladimir Putin in mid-2024. Putin has publicly praised the North Korean troops as “heroic” in both letters and phone calls.
Pyongyang’s Narrative: Heroism and Resolve
North Korea’s state-run media emphasized that its “overseas operational forces” demonstrated the full might of its military through “combat activities” abroad. The rhetoric underscores a message of unyielding commitment: “Our army is now doing what it ought to do … and it will do so in the future, too.”
North Korean leader Kim Jong attends a meeting with officers of the army’s overseas operation, in Pyongyang, North Korea, August 20, 2025 in this photo released by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency. KCNA via REUTERS Purchase Licensing Rights
North Korean leader Kim Jong attends a meeting with officers of the army’s overseas operation, in Pyongyang, North Korea, August 20, 2025 in this photo released by North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency. KCNA via REUTERS Purchase Licensing Rights
Resulting Effects of Kim Jong-un’s Ceremony and Claims:
1. Domestic Effects in North Korea
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Boosting Morale & Legitimacy:
Kim is using the Ukraine deployment to project pride, claiming North Korea has “the most powerful army in the world.” This helps reinforce loyalty among citizens and distract from domestic hardships like food shortages and economic isolation. -
Propaganda Victory:
The emotional images of Kim weeping and honoring fallen soldiers are designed to humanize him and rally the population around “sacrifice for the nation.”
2. Impact on Russia
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Military Support:
With 10,000+ North Korean troops and heavy weaponry sent to Russia’s Kursk region, Moscow gains additional manpower and supplies at a time when its own forces are stretched thin. -
Strengthened Alliance:
The public praise and ceremonies cement the Putin–Kim defense pact, deepening military and political ties.
3. Impact on Ukraine & the Battlefield
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Longer War:
North Korean involvement gives Russia fresh forces and more artillery, potentially extending the war. -
Increased Casualties:
Ukraine faces additional challenges, as Pyongyang’s troops are reportedly battle-hardened and heavily supplied.
4. Regional & Global Security Effects
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East Asia Tensions Rise:
South Korea and Japan now face a more emboldened North Korea that has gained real combat experience abroad. -
U.S. & Allies Reaction:
Expect tougher sanctions and warnings from Washington, Seoul, and Tokyo against both Russia and North Korea. This could push Pyongyang further into China and Russia’s orbit. -
New Military Axis:
The Russia–North Korea partnership signals a shift toward a “bloc” system resembling Cold War alignments.
5. Economic & Diplomatic Fallout
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More Sanctions Likely:
Western nations may expand sanctions on North Korea for openly participating in Ukraine, tightening restrictions on trade and finance. -
Aid & Resources from Russia:
In exchange, Kim may secure oil, food, and technology from Moscow, partially offsetting sanctions. -
Isolation vs. Alliance:
North Korea becomes more isolated from the West but more integrated into the Russia-China axis.
Bottom Line:
Kim Jong-un’s praise of North Korea’s troops and his bold claim of commanding “the most powerful army in the world” serve multiple purposes: reinforcing his grip on power at home, showcasing loyalty to Russia, and signaling defiance to the West. Yet, beyond the spectacle in Pyongyang, the move carries serious implications.
For Russia, North Korean support means fresh manpower and weapons that could prolong the conflict in Ukraine. For Ukraine, it adds another layer of difficulty in an already grinding war. For the world, it underscores a dangerous shift toward new military blocs, with North Korea aligning openly with Moscow against Washington and its allies.
In the end, Kim’s dramatic ceremony was not just a show of honor—it was a calculated message: North Korea is prepared to fight beyond its borders, deepen its alliances, and challenge the global balance of power. The resulting effects will ripple far beyond Pyongyang, reshaping both the war in Ukraine and the future of international security.
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