North Korean soldiers are getting a new memorial in Pyongyang. 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.

Quiz 1:
In which region of Russia are North Korean soldiers believed to be stationed according to Ukraine's intelligence agency?
A. Moscow
B. Siberia
C. Kursk
D. Ural Mountains

Quiz 2:
Why is the memorial being built in Pyongyang, according to Leader Kim Jong Un?
A. To symbolize their strengthening relationship forged through economic ties.
B. To honor those who have fought alongside China against South Korea.
C. To symbolize their strengthening relationship, "forged at the cost of blood."
D. To commemorate their peacekeeping efforts in the Middle East.

Quiz 3:
Who attended the groundbreaking ceremony of the new memorial in Pyongyang?
A. Families of soldiers who have died in the fighting and soldiers who have served in Russia
B. Soldiers from Ukraine
C. Diplomats from South Korea
D. Representatives from the United Nations