SEOUL — North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has publicly thanked commanders and soldiers involved in what state media described as “overseas military operations”, in remarks widely seen as referring to North Korean troops deployed to support Russia’s war in Ukraine.
Kim made the comments during celebrations marking the 78th anniversary of North Korea’s founding on September 9, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
Kim Gives Special Tribute to Overseas Troops
Speaking at an assembly hall in Pyongyang, Kim thanked workers and service personnel for their contributions to the country.
But he reserved special recognition for military personnel serving abroad.
KCNA reported that Kim expressed special gratitude and high respect to commanders and soldiers participating in overseas military operations. While North Korean state media did not specify where those forces were deployed, the comments are widely understood to refer to troops supporting Russian forces in the Ukraine war.
Thousands of North Korean Troops Sent to Russia
Western and South Korean officials estimate that North Korea has sent between 14,000 and 15,000 troops to fight alongside Russian forces since late 2024.
South Korea’s National Intelligence Service estimated in February 2026 that around 6,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or wounded.
The deployment has become one of the clearest signs of the deepening military relationship between Pyongyang and Moscow.
More Troops Could Still Be Sent
North Korea has reportedly continued preparations for a possible additional troop deployment to Russia.
However, South Korea’s Defence Ministry said in late August that there were no immediate signs that another deployment was imminent.
That means Pyongyang appears to be keeping the option open while continuing to support Russia through its existing military relationship.
What North Korea Gets in Return
South Korean intelligence assessments say Pyongyang has received economic support and military technology assistance from Russia in exchange for troops and munitions.
The growing partnership has also been reflected in expanding infrastructure links.
On September 7, Russia and North Korea inaugurated their first road bridge across their shared border, creating another route for trade and cooperation between the two countries.
The two countries have also strengthened their strategic partnership as Moscow seeks military support for its war and Pyongyang looks to expand its economic and military capabilities.
China and Russia Also Send Anniversary Messages
North Korea’s founding anniversary was also marked by messages from Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening strategic ties with Pyongyang, according to North Korean state media.
The diplomatic messages came as Kim’s government continues to deepen relations with both of its most important strategic partners.
Why Kim’s Message Matters
Kim’s public recognition of troops involved in overseas operations is significant because it again highlights North Korea’s expanding role beyond the Korean Peninsula.
For years, Pyongyang’s military strategy was largely focused on deterring the United States, South Korea and Japan.
Now, North Korean forces are increasingly linked to military developments far beyond East Asia.
The reported troop deployment to Russia has also raised international concerns about what Pyongyang could gain from its closer military partnership with Moscow, particularly in advanced weapons and military technology.
The Bottom Line
Kim Jong Un used North Korea’s 78th founding anniversary to publicly thank troops serving in “overseas military operations” — a reference widely understood to mean North Korean soldiers deployed in support of Russia’s war in Ukraine.
An estimated 14,000 to 15,000 North Korean troops have reportedly been sent to support Russian forces since late 2024, with South Korean intelligence estimating around 6,000 were killed or wounded as of February 2026.
And while there is no immediate sign of another troop deployment, Pyongyang is reportedly continuing preparations.
Kim’s message sends a powerful signal: North Korea’s military ambitions — and its partnership with Russia — are no longer confined to its own borders.
The bigger question now is what Pyongyang will receive in return as its role in Russia’s war continues to deepen.
WWC ONE MEDIA J.M.D
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