Russian Defense Minister Andrey Belousov presented the Order of Courage to 10 North Korean soldiers at a ceremony in Pyongyang on 26/4, acknowledging their bravery in battles against Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk province in 2024. He also praised their boundless devotion to their country.

"At the invitation of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and on behalf of President Vladimir Putin, we are here to express our deepest gratitude to those who have shown unwavering patriotism, as well as their loyalty and oath of honor," Belousov stated during the ceremony.

Belousov emphasized the historical role of military personnel: "In all historical eras, national security and sovereignty rest on the firm shoulders of those who defend the country. Courage, valor, and the will to be an impenetrable wall against all dangers have long been distinguishing qualities of North Korean soldiers."

North Korean Defense Minister No Kwang-chol thanked Russia for recognizing and honoring the contributions of North Korean soldiers in the campaign.

The ceremony followed Ukraine's offensive in Russia's Kursk province, launched in 8/2024, which led to the control of a significant territory for several months. Under a treaty signed between Russia and North Korea in 7/2024, Pyongyang dispatched forces to assist Moscow in fully liberating the area by the end of 4/2025.

Leader Kim Jong-un and Minister Belousov at a reception in Pyongyang on 26/4. Photo: KCNA

North Korea also sent about 1,000 military engineers to Kursk to work with Russian forces on mine clearance, alongside construction workers tasked with restoring damaged infrastructure.

Leader Kim Jong-un affirmed that deploying troops to fight in Kursk was "a justified action and an exercise of sovereign rights to protect a brotherly nation." He also posthumously awarded hero titles and first-class medals to the soldiers who died.

Huyen Le (According to TASS, NK News)