Kim Jong Un Celebrates Returning Soldiers from Russia Mission

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un held a distinguished ceremony to celebrate the return of a military unit from a mission in Russia, according to state media KCNA on Saturday.

During his speech, Kim commended the 528th Regiment of Engineers of the Korean People’s Army (KPA) for their "heroic" actions and "mass heroism" throughout their 120 days abroad. The unit was deployed to Russia in early August to perform combat and engineering operations in the Kursk region amidst ongoing hostilities with Ukraine.

Footage shared by KCNA depicted the soldiers arriving, with Kim warmly greeting them, including one soldier in a wheelchair. The event in Pyongyang on Friday saw attendance from families, military officials, party leaders, and large crowds.

The North Korean government reported nine soldiers lost their lives during the mission. Kim referred to their deaths as a “profound loss” and declared that the regiment would receive the Order of Freedom and Independence. The fallen heroes were awarded the title of Hero of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea along with other significant honors posthumously.

According to KCNA, the regiment effectively cleared perilous zones under combat conditions, demonstrating “absolute loyalty” to the ruling Workers' Party of Korea and the state. Kim emphasized the unit’s discipline, political education, and unity as exemplary attributes for the entire military.

This event continues a trend of North Korea publicly celebrating soldiers who served alongside Russian forces. Last year, under a bilateral defense agreement, the nation sent approximately 14,000 troops to participate in the fighting in Kursk. Reports from South Korean, Ukrainian, and Western sources indicate that over 6,000 of those soldiers were killed.

Kim’s remarks and the ceremony are reflective of North Korea’s steadfast support for its military personnel and the government's solid relationship with Russia. By emphasizing themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and valor, the leadership aims to bolster national pride and enhance military morale among its populace.