Seoul and Kyiv Negotiations on North Korean Prisoners of War
Ukraine and South Korea are negotiating the possible transfer of two North Korean POWs, captured by Ukrainian forces. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and his Ukrainian counterpart discussed the issue, noting that North Korean individuals are considered South Korean citizens under local law. However, their relocation requires personal consent.
On March 17, 2025, Ukraine engaged in discussions with South Korea regarding the transfer of two North Korean soldiers captured as prisoners of war (POWs). South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha participated in a phone call to explore the logistics of this potential handover. Cho emphasized that, according to South Korean law, North Koreans are regarded as South Korean citizens; however, these individuals must voluntarily express their intention to relocate.
Last fall, approximately 12,000 North Korean troops were deployed to Russia’s Kursk Oblast in response to Ukraine’s military actions initiated in August 2024. Ukrainian forces captured the two North Korean soldiers on January 11. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously reported that North Korean military units allied with Russia suffered substantial losses, with around 4,000 casualties, two-thirds of which were fatalities. Kyrylo Budanov, the chief of Ukraine’s military intelligence, linked these heavy losses to the North Korean troops’ lack of combat experience coupled with their strategy of utilizing human wave attacks with inadequate equipment.
In summary, the ongoing negotiations between South Korea and Ukraine signify a notable diplomatic engagement concerning the fate of North Korean POWs. The discussions highlight South Korea’s legal stance on North Korean citizens and the necessity for voluntary relocation. The situation reflects broader military developments in the region, particularly regarding the deployment and performance of North Korean forces amidst the ongoing conflict.
Original Source: kyivindependent.com
