Russian soldiers have been quietly sent to North Korea for medical rehabilitation and rest, according to multiple sources. The initiative, kept under wraps by the Russian government, provides servicemen from Russia's far east with a unique opportunity for recovery. These trips, facilitated by a Russian tour agency, allow soldiers to recuperate in Wonsan, a coastal city in North Korea. The program is part of an evolving military and political alignment between Russia and North Korea.
The Russian soldiers sent to North Korea reportedly suffer from a range of physical and psychological conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder. The number of participants in these trips is limited to a few hundred, as stated by Aleksandr Matsegora, Russia’s ambassador to Pyongyang. He confirmed that "hundreds of Russian soldiers" who fought in Ukraine were "undergoing rehabilitation in North Korean sanatorium and medical facilities." However, the extent and impact of North Korea's role in providing medical and rehabilitation services remain largely unknown.
The soldiers stay in a health center equipped with amenities such as a pool and sauna, sharing facilities with their fellow servicemen. Aleksei, one of the soldiers, mentioned sharing these facilities with about two dozen others. Despite the language and cultural barriers that hinder treatment, Aleksei noted, "The facilities were clean and good overall, and the sun was shining." For some, the experience was unexpected. Aleksei remarked, "It wasn’t what I expected, but I thought I should try it out."
This initiative is not publicly promoted by the Russian government, occurring under the guise of medical help. Still, the trips highlight the growing camaraderie between the two nations. Matsegora expressed gratitude for the North Korean hospitality by stating that "the treatment, the care, the food – everything related to staying in North Korea was absolutely free." He added that when Russia offered to compensate North Korea for their expenses, they were "genuinely offended and asked us never to do it again."
The healthcare system in Pyongyang faces significant challenges due to international sanctions. Despite these constraints, North Korea has managed to accommodate the needs of Russian soldiers. This accommodation includes providing a facility for digital detoxification. A young female participant of a summer camp in 2024 noted the "lack of connectivity," which allowed for a complete two-week digital detox. She also observed that it was "very unusual to see how they marched in unison, played musical instruments as instructed and did everything together," reflecting on the disciplined environment.
For some soldiers like Aleksei, the experience left them yearning for familiarity. He commented, "I’d rather recover closer to home, somewhere more familiar." This sentiment underscores the challenges posed by cultural differences despite the peaceful environment.
North Korea's capacity to welcome more Russian soldiers remains evident. However, the full scope of its involvement in providing medical services is yet to be revealed. Although the trips are beneficial for some, they highlight broader geopolitical dynamics between Russia and North Korea.