North Korean troops deployed to Russia under Vladimir Putin’s command have proven capable and fierce in high-cost “human wave” assaults. The conflict has provided an opportunity for North Korea to learn modern warfare tactics and adapt its military strategy.
The 11,000-strong contingent of special operations forces, largely drawn from the 11th Corps, or Storm Corps, has been trained in infiltration, infrastructure sabotage, and assassinations. Ukrainian intelligence services have described them as “highly motivated, well-trained,” and “brave.” The Pentagon has also praised their discipline and competence.
However, North Korean soldiers are facing heavy losses fighting for Russia, with Western intelligence suggesting they may be killed or wounded by April if the current casualty rate continues. This could be a costly lesson in modern warfare for the North Koreans.
Despite being new to this war, North Korea’s forces have observed using tactics such as neutralizing drones and engaging in light infantry operations. However, they are struggling with mechanized battles, lacking armored vehicles and tanks. The Institute for the Study of War think tank estimates that the entire 11,000-man contingent could be killed or wounded by April.
North Korea is learning valuable lessons from this experience, including how to use US- and Western-provided weapons systems, such as HIMARS and Abrams. These lessons will make North Korea a more challenging combat force in East Asia. The country’s martial philosophy emphasizes hard military power, and it has maintained one of the world’s largest standing armies with around 1.2 million soldiers.
As North Korea brings these lessons home, they are doing so at great cost to their forces. However, this experience will likely provide valuable insights for future conflicts.
Source: https://www.businessinsider.com/north-korea-troops-fighting-ukraine-war-skill-tactics-2025-1