North Korean Soldiers Face Severe Consequences if Captured in Ukraine War
Former North Korean soldiers reveal that captured troops face execution of their families, driving many to suicide. Over 12,000 soldiers have been deployed to Russia for the Ukraine war, with high casualty rates linked to inadequate training. Defectors emphasize the need for international condemnation of North Korea and call for accountability for Kim Jong Un.
A former North Korean sergeant, Ryu Seong-hyeon, revealed that captured soldiers face severe consequences, including execution of their families, leading many to prefer suicide over capture. Ryu, who defected to South Korea in 2019, noted that North Korean soldiers, deployed to fight in Ukraine, have low survival rates due to a lack of training and knowledge about modern warfare.
US estimates indicate that North Korea sent over 12,000 soldiers to Russia for the Ukraine conflict, resulting in approximately 300 deaths and over 2,700 injuries. Following a lull in fighting, additional troops have reportedly been sent to the frontlines, as Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reported the capture of two North Korean soldiers, which marks a significant event in the conflict.
Captured soldiers were found to lack awareness about fighting in the war, with one soldier expressing a desire to remain in Ukraine. Defectors Ryu and Pak emphasized the perilous situation of North Korean troops, who are under orders to commit suicide rather than risk capture, as their families would face severe punishment for any disclosures to the enemy.
The defectors discussed the challenges faced by North Korean soldiers on the battlefield, highlighting their inadequate response to modern combat tactics, particularly drones. Reports suggest that many North Korean troops are not adequately trained to engage effectively in this context, resulting in high casualty rates.
The defectors also expressed concern about the long-term implications of North Korea’s military involvement in the Ukraine war. They warned that if Russia gains victory, it could strengthen the alliance between North Korea and Russia, potentially leading to further military conflicts in the future.
Pak and his team, Voices of North Korean Youth, are advocating for international condemnation of North Korea and Russia, aiming to hold Kim Jong Un accountable. The need for a unified response from the global community is emphasized to address the rising threat posed by North Korea’s militarization.
The accounts from former North Korean soldiers reveal alarming insights into the treatment of captured troops and the dire circumstances under which they are deployed in the Ukraine conflict. Their revelations about forced suicide, lack of training, and the dire punishment of family members highlight significant humanitarian concerns. Urging the international community to take a stand against these actions and hold leaders accountable is crucial for ensuring future security.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
