Ukrainian forces from the renowned 95th Airborne Assault Brigade have revealed a bizarre yet symbolic encounter during their operations in Russia’s Kursk Oblast. The soldiers recounted how a captured North Korean soldier’s desperate attempt to evade capture ended when he ran headfirst into a concrete pole, rendering himself unconscious.
The event, shared on Facebook by the 95th Separate Air Assault Polissia Brigade, illustrates the unyielding yet ultimately futile resistance of North Korean troops. A soldier identified as “Grandpa” and another named Serhii described the incident. “He ran full tilt into the pole,” they said. “They’re not inclined to surrender. They retreat as far as they can and try to hold out. Some of our comrades have even reported North Korean soldiers blowing themselves up when retreat is no longer an option.”
This encounter occurred during a fierce battle in Kursk Oblast. Ukrainian forces successfully repelled an assault launched by North Korean soldiers, killing all attackers except one. The captured soldier, described as a young and athletic man, tried to escape while being transferred to a vehicle. His act of defiance, though dramatic, ended in self-inflicted unconsciousness.
The paratroopers highlighted the stark contrast between North Korean and Russian troops. Unlike the often-disorganised and demoralised Russian soldiers who abandon their comrades, North Korean forces display intense loyalty, making every effort to retrieve their wounded or fallen colleagues. The Ukrainians noted their adversaries’ discipline and physical fitness but remarked on their ultimately misplaced determination.
This was not an isolated incident. On 11 January, Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers in Kursk Oblast. A subsequent video released by Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces (SOF) showcased their operatives capturing and transporting one of these soldiers. Later, a captive revealed that he served in an intelligence battalion and was unaware of the identity of his adversaries before deployment.
The presence of North Korean troops on Russian soil raises significant questions about the depth of Moscow’s alliances. As the Kremlin continues its aggression against Ukraine, its reliance on foreign mercenaries, including North Koreans has revealed its diminishing ability to sustain its war effort.
Comparison of Troop Behaviour
| Characteristic | North Korean Soldiers | Russian Soldiers |
|---|---|---|
| Surrender Propensity | Rarely surrender, resist fiercely | Frequently abandon posts |
| Loyalty to Comrades | High, attempt retrieval efforts | Low, often leave comrades |
| Physical Condition | Fit and disciplined | Mixed, often demoralised |
| Combat Tactics | Aggressive and decisive | Disorganised and erratic |
