North Korean troops deployed alongside Russian forces in the Kursk region reportedly engaged in excessive drinking during New Year’s Eve celebrations, according to Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence (HUR) on January 2.
The heavy alcohol consumption took place on the nights of December 31, 2024, and January 1, 2025, despite the ongoing combat operations.
Reports indicate that the North Korean units, already enduring significant casualties, are grappling with declining morale.
To offset rising losses, Russian commanders have been rotating fresh North Korean troops to the frontlines.
On December 31 and January 1, additional North Korean soldiers were deployed to positions near the settlements of Ulanok, Fanaseyevka, and Cherkasskaya Konopelka in the Kursk region.
HUR noted that lower-ranking Russian officers have been falsifying reports to senior officials, downplaying the severity of casualties among the North Korean personnel.
Propaganda and Psychological Strain
North Korean soldiers are reportedly subjected to Russian military propaganda emphasizing the “great importance” of their participation in the war against Ukraine.
Despite these efforts, morale remains low, and reports suggest that some North Korean troops have even attempted to take their own lives.
John Kirby, Coordinator for Strategic Communications at the U.S. National Security Council, previously commented on the heavy losses suffered by North Korean forces fighting alongside Russian troops.
