North Korea Completes Housing for Families of Soldiers Killed in Ukraine War

Seoul, South Korea – North Korea has completed a new housing district in Pyongyang for families of North Korean soldiers who died while fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, state media reported Monday. The project, named Saeppyol Street, is the latest effort by leader Kim Jong Un to honor those killed in the conflict.

Kim Jong Un Inaugurates Saeppyol Street

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attended the completion ceremony of Saeppyol Street on Sunday, February 15, 2026, accompanied by his daughter, Kim Ju Ae, and other officials, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) . During the ceremony, Kim pledged to support the families of the “young martyrs” who “sacrificed all to their motherland.”

Increased Propaganda and Support for Russia

The construction of Saeppyol Street is part of a broader trend of increased propaganda from North Korea glorifying troops deployed to fight in Ukraine . Recent efforts include establishing a memorial wall and building a museum dedicated to the soldiers.

In recent months, Kim Jong Un has sent thousands of troops and significant quantities of military equipment, including artillery and missiles, to Russia to support its war efforts in Ukraine . This alignment reflects a shared opposition to the United States.

Casualty Estimates

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service estimates that approximately 6,000 North Korean troops have been killed or wounded during their deployment in Ukraine . While a precise breakdown of fatalities is unavailable, previous estimates suggested around 600 deaths last year.

The intelligence service also believes that North Korean forces are gaining valuable combat experience and benefiting from Russian technical support, potentially enhancing the capabilities of their weapons systems .

Upcoming Party Congress

The completion of Saeppyol Street coincides with preparations for a major ruling party congress later this month, where Kim Jong Un is expected to outline his domestic and foreign policy objectives for the next five years and further consolidate his power .