North Korean soldiers have "disappeared" from the front lines in the Kursk region, according to The New York Times.

In the Kursk region, soldiers from North Korea have not been spotted at the front lines recently. Due to significant losses, they may have been withdrawn. This is reported by The New York Times.

The publication cites sources indicating that North Korean troops have not been seen on the front for about the last two weeks.

The arrival of approximately 11,000 North Korean troops in Russia in November 2024 raised concerns in Ukraine and among its Western allies, who feared that their deployment signaled a significant escalation in the nearly three-year war. However, within just three months, the number of North Koreans has halved.

Dysfunction within their ranks and a lack of cohesion with the Russian Armed Forces quickly led to losses. They lacked significant technical support and did not regroup or retreat.

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un sent to Russia "the best-prepared special operations forces of North Korea," but the Russians seemingly utilized them as infantry, sending them in waves across mine-laden fields where they were mowed down by heavy Ukrainian fire.

U.S. representatives stated that the decision to withdraw North Korean troops from the front line may not be permanent. They suggested it is quite possible that the North Koreans could return after further training or once the Russians find new ways to deploy them to avoid such heavy losses.

It is worth noting that on January 29, Asia Press reported that North Korea learned about the staggering losses of its soldiers in the Kursk region of Russia.

Earlier reports indicated that when it became known that North Korean soldiers were being sent to Russia to fight in Ukraine, many residents of North Korea were convinced they would not have to fight. However, they hoped their children would be well-fed with "cheese and milk."