North Korean leader Kim Jong Un welcomed home troops from the 528th Regiment of Engineers during a ceremony in Pyongyang, as reported by the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). These soldiers had recently completed a 120-day deployment in Russia, where they engaged in combat and engineering tasks as part of military cooperation between the two countries.
During the ceremony, which took place on September 29, 2023, Kim praised the troops for their “heroic” conduct and expressed admiration for their “mass heroism” while fulfilling orders from the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea. Video footage released by KCNA depicted uniformed soldiers disembarking from an aircraft, Kim embracing a soldier in a wheelchair, and a gathering of military officials and families celebrating the return of the troops.
The 528th Regiment was dispatched to the Kursk region in early August and was involved in operations supporting Russia during its ongoing conflict with Ukraine. According to Russia’s Defence Ministry, North Korean forces played a significant role in repelling a major Ukrainian incursion and are now assisting in mine clearance in the area.
Reports indicate that under a mutual defense pact established last year, North Korea sent approximately 14,000 soldiers to support Russian military efforts, with over 6,000 fatalities reported by various sources, including South Korean and Ukrainian intelligence. In his address, Kim acknowledged the loss of nine soldiers during the deployment, calling it a “heartrending loss.” He announced that the regiment would be awarded the Order of Freedom and Independence, and the fallen soldiers would receive the title of Hero of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea along with other honors.
The welcoming ceremony drew a large crowd, including senior military officials, leaders from the ruling party, and the families of the soldiers. Kim emphasized the regiment’s achievements in clearing hazardous areas under combat conditions, highlighting their “absolute loyalty” to both the party and the state. He praised the unity, discipline, and political indoctrination among the troops, calling their performance exemplary and a model for other units within the armed forces.
North Korea has actively recognized the contributions of its troops involved in the conflict in Ukraine. In previous statements, Kim has lauded these soldiers during meetings with military officers engaged in overseas operations. State media has also shown him honoring the fallen, including instances where he draped coffins with the national flag, indicating a solemn recognition of their sacrifice alongside Russian forces.
The ceremony underscores the ongoing military collaboration between North Korea and Russia, reflecting a shared commitment to bolster their respective defense capabilities in the face of international challenges.