North Korean leader Kim Jong-un displayed emotion at a ceremony honoring North Korean soldiers killed fighting for Russia in Ukraine. Approximately 12,000 North Koreans were sent to fight, suffering heavy casualties due to inadequate preparation. Despite the losses, and Kim's apparent grief, plans are underway to send another 6,000 troops to Russia. This military cooperation, formalized in a mutual defense pact, has drawn condemnation from South Korea and Japan for violating UN sanctions.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.