Leader Kim Jong Un says it’s to honor those who have fought alongside Russia against Ukraine
State-run Korean Central Television says the groundbreaking ceremony took place on Thursday.
Kim sought to justify sending troops to the Kursk region in western Russia, adding that the memorial will symbolize their strengthening relationship, “forged at the cost of blood.”
Russia’s ambassador to North Korea reportedly attended along with soldiers who have served in Russia. The families of soldiers who have died in the fighting also took part.
Ukraine’s intelligence agency reportedly said recently that as many as 13,000 North Korean troops are stationed in Kursk.
Observers say Pyongyang is also building the memorial to foster more national unity.
