Germany will not reopen its embassy in North Korea due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict and North Korea’s involvement. A government official stated this decision, which follows the withdrawal of many European nations from North Korea during early COVID-19 restrictions. Germany’s stance contrasts with recent actions of other Western countries that have resumed diplomatic activities in the region.
Germany remains firm in its decision not to reopen its embassy in North Korea as long as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict persists. A German government official emphasized that North Korea’s involvement in the conflict renders the reopening of diplomatic channels unfeasible under present circumstances. This official requested anonymity while conveying this stance.
In early 2020, numerous European nations, including Germany, the United Kingdom, and Sweden, withdrew their diplomatic missions from North Korea due to COVID-19 restrictions imposed by Pyongyang. Germany had been evaluating the situation regarding its embassy reopening, marked by a diplomat’s visit in February 2024 to assess the embassy facilities and living conditions in North Korea.
Notably, North Korea has contributed troops to support Russia amid the war in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Germany’s participation in the United Nations Command (UNC), which oversees the armistice from the Korean War, is a significant development. North Korea has vocally criticized Germany’s UNC involvement, interpreting it as destabilizing to the Korean Peninsula’s peace.
The German official reiterated, “As long as the conflict (in Ukraine) is ongoing, we will not open (the embassy),” signaling a cautious diplomatic posture. In contrast, Sweden has successfully reinstated its diplomats in North Korea as of September last year, with Poland and Switzerland also resuming diplomatic engagements. Presently, 15 foreign embassies are active in North Korea, representing countries such as Brazil, Iran, India, Nigeria, and Nicaragua, according to South Korea’s unification ministry.
Germany’s decision to keep its embassy in North Korea closed amid the Ukraine conflict reflects its diplomatic priorities and concerns about regional stability. While some Western nations have resumed their embassy operations, Germany’s stance reinforces its commitment to addressing the implications of North Korea’s involvement in the war. Given the current geopolitical tensions, Germany will continue to evaluate its diplomatic strategies in the future.
Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr
