North Korean Soldiers’ Belly Full of Parasites—But Here’s Why They’re Still a Serious Threat

As reports emerge of North Korea deploying troops to support Russia in its war against Ukraine, a British media outlet has highlighted the realities and potential dangers of the North Korean military.

According to The Times, North Korea’s military ranks fourth in the world regarding manpower, boasting 1.3 million active-duty soldiers and an additional 7.6 million reservists. Mandatory service terms are extensive, with men serving up to 10 years and women required to serve five years.

Despite its size, North Korea’s military faces significant resource challenges, including chronic shortages of fuel, spare parts, and essential supplies for vehicle and equipment operations. The article also highlighted the poor physical condition of North Korean soldiers, many of whom suffer from malnutrition and, as a result, are shorter on average than their South Korean counterparts. A notable case in 2017 revealed a defector with numerous parasites, underscoring the dire health conditions among North Korean troops.

Nevertheless, The Times cautioned that North Korea’s military should not be underestimated. The country is known for its expertise in asymmetric warfare, identifying enemy weaknesses and deploying small, specialized units for targeted attacks rather than conventional engagements. North Korean special forces, trained for high-stakes, behind-enemy-lines operations, are expected to be among Russia’s most valuable assets.

The report indicated that these elite units could parachute or infiltrate via submarine to strike at strategic targets behind enemy lines where U.S. and South Korean forces are stationed. Their potential targets include ports, airfields, and nuclear power facilities, with the added goal of instilling fear among civilian populations.

Beyond its ground forces, North Korea has a formidable capability for cyber warfare. Up to 3,000 cyber specialists under the Reconnaissance General Bureau, North Korea’s primary intelligence agency, are reportedly capable of executing cyberattacks to disable power facilities, disrupt GPS, or compromise weapons systems through digital means.