North Korean leader Kim Jong Un awarded state honors to soldiers and commanders who achieved notable accomplishments during their deployment to Russia. A memorial wall was also erected at the Party’s Central Committee headquarters, and Kim met with bereaved families to offer his condolences.
The Workers’ Party’s official newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on Friday that a ceremony to present state honors to commanders and combatants of the Korean People’s Army’s overseas operations unit took place at the headquarters of the Party’s Central Committee.
The ceremony was attended by families of martyrs, commanders who had distinguished themselves in overseas military operations, members of the Party’s Central Military Commission, and key leaders from the Ministry of Defense and military command.
Commanders and combatants who demonstrated heroism in overseas military operations were awarded the title of Hero, along with medals and honors. A decree from the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea was also presented. Notably, Kim personally bestowed the title of hero upon military commanders and soldiers who led their units to victory.
In his speech, Kim stated that on behalf of the Party and government, he extends his deepest gratitude and warmest combat salute to the members of the overseas operation units. He further noted that despite facing life-threatening situations on foreign battlefields, they fought bravely, embodying the true spirit of the Korean people and the Korean People’s Army, and have returned home with great honor and remarkable achievements.
He continued that these veterans of overseas operations, who have made historic contributions to the nation’s prosperity and strength, are all great individuals, great heroes, and great patriots. He added that the special honors bestowed upon these victorious warriors represent achievements that can only be attained through fierce struggle.
Kim assured the honored soldiers that the nation will remain dignified, powerful, and strong because of great heroes like them. Further, their military will carry on the legacy of great victories for generations to come, driven by its unique loyalty and heroic spirit.
The North Korean leader specifically mentioned the soldiers’ involvement in the operation to reclaim Kursk in Russia. He stated that they reverently recall the spirit of those who contributed to liberating Kursk territory. Further highlighting that this spirit has now become the shared ethos of all soldiers in the overseas operation units.
During the event, Kim alluded to a forthcoming major national initiative to honor the veterans’ contributions, though he did not provide specific details.
North Korea also announced the establishment of a Wall of Remembrance at the Party’s Central Committee headquarters. Party, government, and military officials, along with bereaved families, laid flowers at the memorial wall.
In a personal meeting with the families of the fallen, Kim expressed that words fail him as he tries to convey his sorrow and regret for not being able to protect their precious sons. He added that these young lives were entrusted to them, and they couldn’t safeguard them.
Later that day, Kim attended a performance at the April 25 House of Culture, celebrating the achievements of the commanders and combatants of the Korean People’s Army’s overseas operations unit.
Analysts suggest that Kim’s special attention to the personnel deployed to Russia aims to prevent public discontent and bolster internal unity. This approach includes honoring the fallen while also presenting awards and hero titles to soldiers and commanders who have achieved notable accomplishments.
