Cooperation Between Ukraine and South Korea Regarding North Korean Prisoners of War

South Korea proposes to Ukraine for cooperation in accepting North Korean prisoners of war captured by Ukraine, expressing readiness to provide them asylum. Discussions arise amidst North Korean involvement in supporting Russian forces, with reports of significant troop losses. South Korea reaffirms its commitment to aid Ukraine and address the fate of North Korean soldiers.

South Korea has initiated discussions with Ukraine regarding the treatment of North Korean prisoners of war. As reported by Reuters, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul communicated with Kyiv, expressing willingness to accept these prisoners on South Korean soil. He affirmed that all North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine are welcome to relocate to South Korea at their discretion.

Reports from Ukraine, the United States, and South Korea indicate that North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russian forces in Ukraine, marking North Korea’s first significant involvement in the conflict since the 1950s. Minister Cho emphasized Seoul’s ongoing commitment to assist the Ukrainian people, particularly in the context of the North Korean soldiers’ circumstances.

As of early January 2025, Ukraine reported that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers had been killed or injured in the ongoing combat. Additionally, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff have noted indications that North Korea may consider sending more troops to Russia, despite previous heavy losses and captures.

The North Korean military’s participation in the war can be traced to last year when Pyongyang sent forces to support Russia’s actions against Ukraine. Presently, these troops are positioned to engage in combat in the Kursk region. Kyrylo Budanov, head of Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, highlighted that North Korean troops are acquiring valuable combat experience while improving their weapons systems through collaboration with Russia.

Budanov further indicated that Russia has assisted in modernizing North Korea’s KN-23 missiles, enhancing their precision during attacks. By early February, it was reported that North Korean forces sustained losses, numbering around 4,000 soldiers, during fighting in the Kursk region.

In summary, South Korea has proposed accepting North Korean prisoners of war from Ukraine, demonstrating diplomatic cooperation amid ongoing conflict. The discussions highlight the active involvement of North Korean troops in the war supporting Russia, underscoring significant military losses and modernization efforts. Additionally, the commitment of both South Korea and Ukraine to navigate this complex situation reflects ongoing geopolitical dynamics in the region.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua