North Korea erects statues for memorial to soldiers killed in Ukraine

On Sunday, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited an art studio where he oversaw the creation of sculptures for a memorial to DPRK soldiers who died in combat abroad.

In 2024, North Korea sent approximately 14,000 soldiers to fight alongside Russian forces in Ukraine as part of a mutual defense pact. According to South Korean, Ukrainian, and Western sources, more than 6,000 of them died there.

During a visit to the Mansudae studio, Kim said that the statues were intended to "forever convey the legendary deeds of the admirable sons of the DPRK." He repeatedly refers to the fallen soldiers as heroes, personally decorates them, and actively participates in the preparations for the memorial.

The move comes at a time when North Korea has begun preparations for a key congress of the ruling Korean Workers' Party. Analysts expect the ninth party congress to take place early next month and may be accompanied by a large military parade.

(kcna, reuters, est)