North Korea to Deploy Thousands of Troops for Reconstruction Efforts in Kursk Region, Says Shoigu

North Korea plans to dispatch military engineers and demining specialists to assist in the reconstruction of areas in Russia’s Kursk region that were affected by Ukraine’s military actions, as reported by state media on Tuesday. This development follows a meeting in Pyongyang between Russian Security Council head Sergei Shoigu and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

Shoigu announced that North Korea intends to send «1,000 demining troops to Russia to clear mines from its territory, along with 5,000 military construction personnel to aid in the rebuilding of infrastructure damaged by the occupying forces,» a reference to Ukrainian troops.

He further mentioned that officials from both nations are set to establish war memorials «to honor the Korean soldiers who perished in battles for the liberation of Russian land.»

«As part of this effort, discussions took place during the visit about creating a memorial complex with a museum in Pyongyang, involving participation from the Russian side,» Shoigu was quoted by the state-controlled TASS news agency.

Since President Vladimir Putin initiated the large-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, North Korea has become one of Russia’s prominent allies. Reports indicate that North Korea has provided weapons to Russia, and last year, it sent thousands of soldiers to support Moscow in repelling Ukraine’s advances in the Kursk region.

According to the Security Council’s press service, Shoigu, a former Defense Minister, «traveled to Pyongyang on a special mission» from Putin. He is set to engage in discussions with North Korean leaders as part of executing the agreements made during his last visit on June 4.

State media showcased footage of Shoigu’s arrival in the North Korean capital, where Kim welcomed him with a hug before they proceeded to their discussions.

Earlier this month, Shoigu had a meeting with Kim and senior military officials, where both sides committed to enhancing what North Korean media referred to as «robust and comprehensive strategic partnership relations.»

Shoigu’s previous trip to North Korea was in March. He stated that his recent visits to the isolated nation are tied to the «swift implementation» of a strategic partnership agreement signed between Moscow and Pyongyang last year, which includes mutual defense commitments.

«The pace at which the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement is being put into action clearly requires continuous attention, regular adjustments, and decision-making at all levels,» the Security Council chief was quoted as saying.

AFP contributed to this report.