In an unexpected development, reports suggest that North Korean soldiers deployed to support Russia in the Ukraine conflict have been granted unrestricted internet access for the first time. According to The New York Post, this newfound online freedom has led the troops, unaccustomed to unfiltered internet access, to consume large amounts of adult content—a surprising diversion for those stationed in Russia.
New Digital Freedom for North Korean Soldiers?
Citing The Financial Times, foreign affairs commentator Gideon Rachman shared insights on social media, revealing that these North Korean soldiers, who have never before had open access to the internet, have taken advantage of their new freedoms. “A usually reliable source tells me that North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia have never had such access before. As a result, they are gorging on pornography,” Rachman stated.
Though the specifics of how this report was substantiated remain unclear, the situation sheds light on the soldiers’ adaptation to an unfiltered internet environment, a stark contrast from the tightly regulated digital landscape in North Korea.
Pentagon’s Response and Focus on Larger Security Concerns
Responding to the reports, U.S. Defense Department spokesperson Army Lt. Col. Charlie Dietz addressed the claims, though cautiously. “As entertaining as that sounds, I can’t confirm any North Korean internet habits or virtual ‘extracurriculars’ in Russia,” Dietz said, emphasizing that the Pentagon’s attention remains on the broader implications of North Korea’s potential role in Russian military efforts. Dietz further noted that queries about North Korean soldiers’ internet activities might be better directed to Moscow, while stressing U.S. support for Ukraine and focus on larger regional security issues.
Although these reports on internet access and online habits are not confirmed by any official statements, the speculation has sparked curiosity about how such access might influence North Korean troops culturally and psychologically, especially those previously sheltered from open internet content.