Ukraine has launched a psychological warfare campaign targeting North Korean soldiers deployed to fight alongside Russian forces. As part of the effort, Ukraine is showcasing well-maintained prisoner-of-war camps, emphasizing that “three meals a day, including meat, are provided.”
On October 23, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate posted a video titled “Message to the Soldiers of the Korean People’s Army” on its YouTube and Telegram channel “I Want to Live (Хочу жить).” The channel typically encourages Russian soldiers to surrender, but this marks the first time propaganda targeting North Korean troops has been shared.
In the accompanying message, the Ukrainian military addressed North Korean soldiers, saying, “You have no need to die meaninglessly on foreign soil for the sake of Putin’s regime. Surrender! Ukraine will protect you and provide food and warmth.”
The video outlines the living conditions North Korean soldiers can expect if they surrender, showcasing comfortable accommodations. A calm voice in Korean explains, “You will be housed in large, warm, bright rooms with separate sleeping quarters,” adding that prisoners of war receive three meals a day, including meat, fresh vegetables, and bread.
A plate of food, complete with a portion of meat, is shown as the voiceover describes the meals. The video concludes with a message reading “Save yourself, choose life,” along with a hotline number, QR code, and other contact information for communicating with the Ukrainian government.
According to South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, as of October 23, North Korea has sent approximately 3,000 troops to Russia. The total deployment is expected to reach 10,000 by the end of the year. North Korean troops reportedly completed training within the country in September and October, and those already in Russia are now undergoing local acclimatization at training facilities.
BY CHULWOONG KIM, YOUNGNAM KIM [kim.youngnam@koreadaily.com]
