South Korea has proposed cooperation with Ukraine regarding North Korean prisoners of war, offering to accept them if desired. This follows North Korea’s deployment of troops to support Russia in Ukraine, with significant casualties reported. South Korea aims to assist Ukrainian efforts and respond to the implications of North Korean military involvement in the conflict.
Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, South Korea has initiated discussions with Ukraine regarding North Korean prisoners of war. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul has proposed cooperation, expressing willingness to accept these prisoners if they wish to relocate to South Korea. According to reports, North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russian forces, marking a significant involvement in the war since the Korean War era.
Minister Cho reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to aid Ukraine and expressed readiness to assist North Korean soldiers who may wish to come to South Korea. As per Ukrainian estimates, over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have sustained injuries or fatalities in combat as of January 2025, highlighting the severe toll the conflict has taken on North Korea’s military forces.
Moreover, the Joint Chiefs of Staff in Seoul indicate that North Korea may consider sending reinforcements to Russia, despite significant losses among its troops. The North Korean military’s involvement in the war is characterized by a focus on training and combat experience in areas like the Kursk region, where they are reportedly engaged in operations and improving weaponry through collaboration with Russian forces.
Defense Intelligence head Kyrylo Budanov mentioned that the combat exposure is enabling North Korea to advance its military capabilities, as exemplified by the modernization of its KN-23 missiles, enhancing their accuracy in strikes. Estimates suggest that North Korean troop casualties in the Kursk region have reached around 4,000 due to ongoing combat activities.
The discussions between Ukraine and South Korea about North Korean prisoners of war illustrate the complexities of international military involvement in the Ukraine conflict. South Korea’s readiness to accommodate captured North Korean soldiers showcases a humanitarian approach amidst ongoing hostilities and reflects the broader implications of North Korean military engagement with Russian forces. With notable casualties reported on both sides, the situation continues to evolve, requiring close observation.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
