Recent reports of North Korean troops supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine have drawn international attention. This marks an escalation from North Korea’s previous material support to direct military involvement.<\/p>\n
Daily NK conducted interviews with two sources in Russia to gauge reactions to this development, including a Russian citizen and a North Korean construction worker.<\/p>\n
The Russian perspective suggests skepticism about the military value of North Korean troops in the Ukraine conflict. However, the North Korean perspective reveals pride in this deployment, with hopes it will enhance their country’s military prestige globally.<\/p>\n
Below are our interviews with:<\/p>\n
(A) A Russian citizen<\/p>\n
(B) A North Korean construction worker currently in Russia<\/p>\n
Daily NK: Have you heard the news about North Korea deploying troops to Russia?<\/b><\/p>\n
A<\/span>: I saw the news recently, and it\u2019s become a big conversation topic for some Russians here.<\/span><\/p>\n B<\/span>: I heard about it from Russian traders in the construction field. Managers and workers have been talking a lot about North Korean soldiers preparing to join the war in Russia.<\/span><\/p>\n Daily NK: What were your first thoughts on hearing this news? And how did your friends and acquaintances react?<\/b><\/p>\n A<\/span>: I\u2019d never imagined that Russia would receive help from North Korea. Many people are doubtful whether North Korean troops will actually be helpful in Ukraine.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n B<\/span>: At first, I was shocked. Some people with children or nephews in the army are worried. Others feel proud both that a military power like Russia needs North Korean soldiers, and also that our two countries are joining forces militarily at a time of great difficulty.<\/span><\/p>\n Daily NK: How much of an impact will the North Korean troop deployment have on Russia\u2019s war against Ukraine?<\/b><\/p>\n