A North Korean defector on why Kim Jong Un has sent troops to Ukraine
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This episode is titled:
A North Korean defector on why Kim Jong Un has sent troops to Ukraine
Notable Quotes
"North Koreans were compelled to commit suicide before they were captured."
"You are told you could die gloriously and be remembered forever; that was the ultimate reward."
"North Korea's military involvement in Ukraine poses a danger for the rest of the world beyond South Korea."
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Get More InsightsEpisode Summary
In this episode of The Guardian Today, the focus is on the deployment of North Korean troops in Ukraine and what this means for Kim Jong-un and international relations. Former North Korean soldier Hyun Sung Lee provides insight into the harsh conditions and indoctrination within the North Korean military. Despite the rigorous training, he describes a lack of modernized techniques or technology.
The episode includes expert commentary from Jean Lee, who outlines the history behind North Korea's involvement in the Ukraine conflict, noting that military arrangements began as early as 2022. North Korea recognized the breakaway regions in Eastern Ukraine and later deepened ties with Russia, culminating in the deployment of between 14,000 and 15,000 North Korean troops for training and combat operations.
Discussion includes the shocking realities faced by these soldiers when they found themselves unprepared for actual combat and how Kim Jong-un exploits their sacrifices for financial gain. The conversation extends to the broader implications of North Korea's military activities and the potential for more aggressive actions in the future, particularly if the regime gains confidence through combat experience in Ukraine.
The episode warns of the instability that North Korea's involvement could bring to the East Asian region and emphasizes the urgent need for the international community to pay attention to the developments. The relationship between North Korea and Russia is highlighted as one based on mutual need, strategic partnership, and evolving military cooperation, providing both nations with leverage in their respective conflicts.
The episode includes expert commentary from Jean Lee, who outlines the history behind North Korea's involvement in the Ukraine conflict, noting that military arrangements began as early as 2022. North Korea recognized the breakaway regions in Eastern Ukraine and later deepened ties with Russia, culminating in the deployment of between 14,000 and 15,000 North Korean troops for training and combat operations.
Discussion includes the shocking realities faced by these soldiers when they found themselves unprepared for actual combat and how Kim Jong-un exploits their sacrifices for financial gain. The conversation extends to the broader implications of North Korea's military activities and the potential for more aggressive actions in the future, particularly if the regime gains confidence through combat experience in Ukraine.
The episode warns of the instability that North Korea's involvement could bring to the East Asian region and emphasizes the urgent need for the international community to pay attention to the developments. The relationship between North Korea and Russia is highlighted as one based on mutual need, strategic partnership, and evolving military cooperation, providing both nations with leverage in their respective conflicts.
Key Takeaways
- North Korean troops have been sent to Ukraine for combat, where they face severe challenges including inadequate preparation and high casualties.
- Kim Jong-un uses the sacrifices of North Korean soldiers in Ukraine to reinforce his regime's legitimacy and financial interests.
- The collaboration between North Korea and Russia could lead to increased geopolitical instability and a potential arms race in Northeast Asia.
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