Russian Army in Turmoil as North Korean Forces Lose Discipline and Go on Drunken Rampage

 

Reports Suggest Russian Troops Fear North Korean Allies Amid Rising Misconduct

Recent reports indicate that Russian soldiers are growing increasingly wary of their North Korean allies on the front lines. North Korean troops, deployed to assist Vladimir Putin’s military campaign in Ukraine, have been accused of drunken behavior, violence, and spreading fear among local Russian communities.

Last year, North Korea dispatched an estimated 11,000 troops to support Russia’s efforts at the front. These units were primarily stationed in the Kursk region, where they engaged in heavy fighting against Ukrainian forces. Their deployment has helped the Kremlin regain territory lost to Kyiv’s counteroffensive in August 2024.

However, the presence of these soldiers has sparked serious concerns. Numerous reports point to widespread indiscipline, including excessive alcohol consumption, theft, and attempted sexual assaults. One internal message from a Tuvan military unit described a troubling breakdown in order, noting: “Fifteen incidents of drunkenness last month, four fights, two attempted rapes of civilians, and seven cases of theft.” The message also warned that some Russian troops were reluctant to arm their North Korean counterparts, fearing unpredictable behavior.

Although the influx of North Korean troops has bolstered Russia’s manpower, it has also introduced new challenges. The rigid military discipline typically associated with Kim Jong-un’s forces appears to have eroded, particularly as soldiers encounter fewer restrictions and greater personal freedoms than in North Korea.

According to South Korean intelligence, North Korean forces have suffered heavy losses since their deployment, with approximately 4,000 killed or wounded in action. In response, Pyongyang reportedly sent an additional 3,000 troops earlier this year.

Beyond personnel, North Korea has provided significant military aid to Russia, including millions of rounds of ammunition, ballistic missiles, long-range artillery, and multiple-launch rocket systems. A Reuters investigation concluded that these contributions have given Russian forces a critical edge on the battlefield.

In April, North Korea officially acknowledged its involvement in the conflict for the first time. The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that its troops played a key role in helping Russian forces “completely liberate” the Kursk border region—acting under direct orders from Kim Jong-un.

This announcement followed public remarks from Russian Chief of Staff Valery Gerasimov, who praised the “heroism” of North Korean soldiers, marking Moscow’s first official recognition of their participation in the war.