North Korean leader Kim Jong Un presided over a ceremony welcoming home the 528th Regiment of Engineers of the Korean People’s Army (KPA) after their deployment in Russia. According to the state-run KCNA news agency, the troops returned following a 120-day mission during which they performed combat and engineering tasks in the Kursk region amid ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
The ceremony held in Pyongyang featured soldiers disembarking from an aircraft and included emotional moments, such as Kim embracing a soldier in a wheelchair. The event was attended by military officials, leaders from the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea, families of the soldiers, and large crowds. Kim praised the regiment for their “heroic” conduct and “mass heroism,” highlighting their loyalty to the party and the state.
During the deployment, the unit was reported to have played a crucial role in assisting Russian forces, particularly in repelling a significant Ukrainian incursion. Last month, the Russian Defence Ministry acknowledged that North Korean troops were actively involved in mine clearance operations in the region. Reports indicate that North Korea sent approximately 14,000 soldiers to support Russia last year, with over 6,000 casualties, according to various international sources, including South Korean and Ukrainian officials.
Kim expressed condolences for the nine soldiers who lost their lives during the mission, describing their deaths as a “heartrending loss.” He announced that the regiment would receive the Order of Freedom and Independence, and those who fell would be honored with the title of Hero of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea along with other state honors.
In his address, Kim emphasized the political indoctrination, discipline, and unity within the ranks, calling the regiment’s performance exemplary and a model for the armed forces. North Korea has consistently highlighted the contributions of its troops to Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. Earlier this year, Kim had publicly commended the soldiers during a meeting and has been seen participating in ceremonies honoring those killed in action, further reinforcing the regime’s narrative of solidarity with Russia.
This ceremony reflects North Korea’s ongoing commitment to supporting its ally in a conflict that has drawn significant global attention and condemnation. As the situation continues to evolve, the implications of such military collaborations remain a crucial aspect of regional security dynamics.
