Kim Jong Un’s Troop Deployment to Russia Criticized as a ‘Power Play at the Cost of North Korean Lives

A U.S. expert on North Korean human rights has sharply criticized North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s decision to send troops to Russia, calling it “selling the blood, sweat, and tears of North Korean citizens to maintain power.”

On Tuesday, Greg Scarlatoiu, Executive Director of the Committee for Human Rights in North Korea (HRNK), made the remarks during a briefing hosted by the Washington Times Foundation. He described the troop deployment as “North Korea exporting instability and violence to conflict zones across the globe for its own benefit.”

Scarlatoiu explained that the decision allows Kim Jong Un to secure much-needed foreign currency, which in turn funds the regime’s development of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles and the purchase of luxury goods for the country’s elite. He referred to this as a victory for Kim’s Byungjin Policy, which simultaneously focuses on developing nuclear weapons and the economy.

Scarlatoiu, citing testimonies from North Korean defectors, pointed out that one of the major challenges faced by North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia is the lack of familiar food. He explained that neither North Korea nor Russia can provide these troops with the cuisine they are used to, such as rice, soup, and possibly kimchi. Thus, the soldiers crave the foods they are accustomed to instead of bread or military rations.

Scarlatoiu commented on President-elect Donald Trump’s appointment of Richard Grenell as the special envoy to North Korea, interpreting it as an indication that the U.S. is ready to engage in talks. He added that he believes the President-elect is eager to re-engage with North Korea, given that the country remains a critical threat to U.S. national security.

Regarding South Korea’s political situation, Scarlatoiu criticized President Yoon Suk Yeol’s martial law declaration, calling it wrong. However, he also suggested that the opposition is imposing legislative tyranny in the country, pointing out that the push for Yoon’s impeachment is an effort to “dismantle the democracy we know in South Korea.” Scarlatoiu noted that this threat has led to a rare consolidation of South Korea’s conservative factions in support of the president.