North Korean troops spark controversy among Russian allies
Soldiers from North Korea are reportedly fighting on the side of Russia in Ukraine. It seems initial conflicts have arisen. A recording has surfaced online featuring a Russian Orthodox priest, who claims that the Koreans have "brought a plague to the country" and advises soldiers not to heed the "devilish words" of the godless.
In monotheistic religions, there is only one God. In North Korea, however, the leader Kim Jong Un is almost deified. His regime forces citizens to embrace atheism as the "state religion," which means adhering to the belief that a Creator does not exist. Although there are some followers of other beliefs, such as Cheondoism—a blend of various religions—most North Koreans profess no faith.
These differences are precisely what the Russian Orthodox priest in one of the social media recordings finds unacceptable. He addresses the soldiers, stating that the Korean soldiers have brought a plague with their arrival.
A Russian Orthodox priest on North Korean soldiers: "Do not listen to them"
Our Korean comrades arrived from a distant land where they do not believe in God. They brought with them a certain type of plague. God will punish them for this, but also us, for accepting them into our home. Do not take sin upon your souls. Do not listen to their devilish words, the priest implores the soldiers.
The Russian priest urges them to guide the Korean newcomers towards God. He ends by proclaiming that the Creator supports the Russians, adding, "The cross is our banner and weapon." You can view the recording below.
For several weeks, it has been known that North Korean soldiers have arrived in Europe to support Putin's army in the fight against Ukraine. According to Ukrainian officials, there have already been initial clashes between the Ukrainian Armed Forces and the Korean troops.
