North Korea completes new housing district in Pyongyang for families of soldiers killed in Ukraine

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Seoul: North Korea said Monday it has completed a new housing district in Pyongyang for families of soldiers killed while fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, as leader Kim Jong Un steps up efforts to honour the country’s war dead.

State media released images of Kim touring the newly built street, named Saeppyol Street, and visiting the homes of bereaved families. He was accompanied by his daughter, widely believed to be Kim Ju Ae, who has made increasingly frequent public appearances in recent months. During the visit, Kim pledged to repay what he described as the sacrifice of ‘young martyrs’ who gave their lives for the motherland.

The housing project is the latest in a series of propaganda initiatives highlighting North Korean troops deployed in support of Russia’s war in Ukraine. Recent efforts have included the establishment of a memorial wall and plans for a museum dedicated to the fallen. Analysts say the campaign is aimed at reinforcing internal unity and preempting potential public dissatisfaction over mounting casualties.

Pyongyang has reportedly sent thousands of troops as well as significant military equipment, including artillery and missiles, to support Vladimir Putin’s war effort. The growing alignment between the two countries comes as both face ongoing tensions with Washington.

According to South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, an estimated 6,000 North Korean troops have been killed or wounded during their deployment in Ukraine. The agency did not provide a breakdown of fatalities but had previously assessed that around 600 troops had died as of last year.

Lawmakers briefed by the intelligence agency said North Korean forces are believed to be gaining modern combat experience and receiving Russian technical support, potentially enhancing the performance of their weapons systems.

The completion of the new housing district comes ahead of a major ruling party congress scheduled later this month, where Kim is expected to outline key domestic and foreign policy objectives for the next five years and consolidate his grip on power.