Pyongyang: North Korea has initiated the construction of a memorial museum in Pyongyang to honor its troops who perished while fighting alongside Russia in the conflict with Ukraine, as reported by state media.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the groundbreaking ceremony for the Memorial Museum of Combat Feats at the Overseas Military Operations took place with the attendance of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and other key officials. During the ceremony, Kim Jong-un reaffirmed North Korea's commitment to its alliance with Russia, emphasizing the contribution of North Korean troops in the Kursk region of Russia.

Kim noted that the last group of North Korean combatants departed for Russia a year ago, expecting no reward or recognition. Since October of the previous year, North Korea has sent approximately 15,000 troops to participate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. South Korea's intelligence agency reported that around 600 North Korean soldiers have been killed, and over 4,000 have been injured during their deployment.

The North's leader criticized "hegemony-seeking" forces, asserting that their ambitions are destined to fail, as evidenced by the strong North Korea-Russia alliance. He emphasized the enduring friendship between the two nations, forged through shared sacrifices.

Kim personally commenced the construction by shoveling the first scoop of earth. Russian Ambassador to North Korea, Alexandr Matsegora, was present at the ceremony, where he offered encouragement to returning North Korean troops and expressed condolences to the bereaved families.

In August, North Korea held a commendation ceremony for its troops involved in the conflict, with Kim Jong-un referring to them as "great heroes and patriots." He also announced plans to build a new street in Pyongyang's Taesong district, named Sappyol Street, to commemorate the fallen troops. Their remains will be interred in a prominent location in an arboretum near the street, and a monument will be erected to honor their "immortal combat feats."