North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia to support its efforts in Ukraine have allegedly become preoccupied with a surprising new frontier: the unfiltered internet. According to a Financial Times report, these soldiers are experiencing unrestricted access to the internet for the first time — and are reportedly indulging in a vast amount of online pornography, a claim yet to be verified by the Pentagon.
Gideon Rachman, a foreign affairs commentator for the Financial Times, reported on X (formerly Twitter) that a “reliable source” had informed him of the unexpected online activity among the 10,000 North Korean troops sent to Russia. Rachman did not provide further details on how his source could access this information, and Pentagon spokesperson Lt. Col. Charlie Dietz has since refrained from confirming the report, describing it as “entertaining” but unverified.
“We’re focused on the more serious aspects of North Korea’s involvement, if any, in Russia’s military operations,” Dietz told Task and Purpose. “Our attention remains on supporting Ukraine and addressing the more significant regional security concerns.”
North Korea’s partnership with Russia in the Ukraine conflict has drawn international attention, marking a rare venture outside its borders. However, experts suggest that exposing these soldiers to open internet access could lead to unexpected challenges, particularly for individuals from one of the world’s most isolated nations.
Military analysts are curious to observe any “second-and third-order effects” of this cultural shock on the soldiers, given North Korea’s strict media control and deeply embedded social norms. This cultural clash raises questions about the psychological impact of unrestricted internet access on these soldiers, especially as they adjust to Russia’s digital landscape a landscape vastly different from North Korea’s closely monitored environment.
The situation has added a complex layer to the North Korean presence in Russia, prompting speculation on whether Moscow will restrict internet access for these troops in the future. In the meantime, global attention remains fixed on the conflict itself, as well as on the broader implications of North Korea’s involvement on Russia’s side.
