This was confirmed by South Korean intelligence, as reported by Yonhap.
The wounded North Korean soldier was captured by the Special Operations Forces of Ukraine, known to be operating in the Kursk region of Russia.
“Thanks to real-time information exchange with the intelligence agency of a friendly country, [we] confirmed the capture of a wounded North Korean soldier and plans to closely monitor further developments,” stated the National Intelligence Service of Seoul.
Previously, photos of this likely prisoner of war were circulated on Telegram channels. Details regarding his capture and condition are still unknown.
In October, President Volodymyr Zelensky reported that he had received information about Russia preparing two units of North Korean troops with 6,000 soldiers each. On October 24, the Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine confirmed the arrival of the first North Korean units in the Kursk region. On November 7, it became known about the first casualties among North Koreans in battles in the Kursk region of Russia.
Russian leader Vladimir Putin does not deny the presence of North Korean military personnel in Russia, citing a partnership agreement between Russia and North Korea. According to him, how the countries will implement the terms of this agreement is “our business”.
The Financial Times, referencing data from Ukrainian intelligence, reported that North Korea sent to Russia at least 50 of its self-propelled artillery systems (SPAS) and 20 upgraded multiple launch rocket systems.
According to South Korean intelligence, North Korea is preparing to deploy additional troops and military equipment in Russia, which includes strike drones.