South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha engaged in a conversation concerning North Korean POWs captured by Ukraine. Cho affirmed that these soldiers are recognized as South Korean nationals and will be supported if they seek refuge. The discussion also included themes of humanitarian aid and international cooperation for peace in Ukraine, marking a significant diplomatic engagement.
On Monday afternoon, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul engaged in a telephone conversation with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha regarding North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) captured by Ukraine. The South Korean Foreign Ministry reported that Minister Cho reiterated the country’s stance that captured North Korean soldiers are recognized as South Korean nationals. He assured that any captured individuals wishing to relocate to South Korea would receive necessary protection and support in accordance with applicable laws.
The discussion is significant as it marks the first ministerial-level dialogue between South Korea and Ukraine on the repatriation of North Korean soldiers. Two North Korean soldiers were captured during combat operations in Russia’s Kursk region in January. The conversation also encompassed broader topics relating to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Minister Cho reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to monitor developments in Ukraine while collaborating with the international community to facilitate the nation’s postwar recovery and reconstruction efforts. He referenced the ongoing humanitarian assistance provided through the Ukraine Peace and Solidarity Initiative, launched in July 2023.
In turn, Minister Sybiha expressed appreciation for South Korea’s contributions to Ukraine and provided updates on the outcomes of a recent high-level U.S.-Ukraine meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He emphasized the importance of international cooperation, particularly with South Korea, to attain a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.
This exchange was the first direct dialogue between Ministers Cho and Sybiha since their previous meeting on November 25, 2024, at the Group of 7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Italy.
The discussions between South Korea and Ukraine highlight the evolving diplomatic relationship between the two nations, particularly regarding the sensitive issue of North Korean prisoners of war. With South Korea reiterating its support and commitment to humanitarian efforts in Ukraine, the importance of international cooperation, as stressed by both ministers, remains crucial in addressing regional challenges and fostering lasting peace.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
