On the 19th, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) of South Korea reported that at least 100 North Korean soldiers have died and 1,000 have been injured after being deployed to Ukraine. The NIS provided this information in response to inquiries from the National Assembly’s Intelligence Committee.
Unlike foreign reports estimating the death toll of North Korean soldiers at 200, the NIS explained that their estimate of “at least 100” is a conservative one. Regarding the highest-ranking deceased soldier, the NIS mentioned that there is a high possibility it’s at the general level, although they couldn’t provide a precise answer.
The NIS also discussed the possibility of North Korea deploying additional troops. They indicated that North Korea holds the capability to do so, particularly as the situation is likely to intensify before the new U.S. administration under Trump takes office on January 20th next year. This could lead to an increase in North Korean casualties.
Furthermore, the NIS assessed that North Korean troops are being used in the front lines as assault units and lack the ability to counter drones. It has been observed that the Russian military is dissatisfied, considering the North Koreans to be a burden due to their lack of knowledge about drones.
The NIS also pointed out that North Korea is emphasizing the prevention of military conflicts at the Northern Limit Line (NLL) in the West Sea and the Military Demarcation Line (MDL) on land. They analyzed that North Korea is maintaining a low-key response given the current political situation in South Korea.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly’s Intelligence Committee, which conducted the meeting with the NIS in a discussion format, was held solely by the ruling party. The opposition party boycotted, stating they could not receive briefings from the NIS director, who has been accused of a martial law scenario.