Ukraine and South Korea are discussing the status of North Korean prisoners of war captured during the conflict in Ukraine. South Korea’s Foreign Minister has expressed a willingness to assist North Korean soldiers wishing to relocate to South Korea, amid reports of significant casualties among North Korean troops supporting Russian forces.
Recent discussions between South Korean and Ukrainian officials have centered on the handling of North Korean prisoners of war (POWs). Reports indicate that Ukraine has captured North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk region, with assessments suggesting that thousands more may have been killed or injured.
During a telephone conversation on Monday, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul reached out to his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, requesting cooperation regarding the North Korean POWs. This marks a significant moment as North Korea positions its troops in support of Russian military efforts in Ukraine, representing Pyongyang’s first major military involvement since the Korean War in the 1950s.
Minister Cho reiterated Seoul’s commitment to assist the Ukrainian populace and expressed readiness to welcome any North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine who might wish to relocate to South Korea. According to Ukrainian statistics, over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have reportedly been killed or injured in Russia as of early January 2025.
The ongoing negotiations between South Korea and Ukraine signify a crucial development in the context of North Korean military involvement in the conflict. South Korea’s willingness to accept captured North Korean soldiers reflects a strategic approach to mitigating the ramifications of this situation. As more information emerges regarding the status of these POWs, international cooperation remains vital.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
