Ukraine and South Korea are in discussions regarding the treatment of North Korean prisoners of war, with South Korea offering to accept these individuals if they wish to relocate. This follows the deployment of North Korean troops to support Russian forces in Ukraine, resulting in significant casualties. Minister Cho Tae-yul emphasized South Korea’s commitment to aid the Ukrainian people and highlighted the ongoing involvement of North Korean forces in the conflict.
Ukraine and South Korea have initiated discussions concerning the fate of North Korean prisoners of war. South Korea has proposed cooperation in the treatment of these individuals and is prepared to accept them if they wish to relocate. This development was highlighted in a recent conversation between South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and Ukrainian officials, as reported by Reuters.
Minister Cho expressed South Korea’s willingness to welcome all North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine should they desire to come to South Korea. This proposal comes amid reports that North Korean troops have been deployed to support Russian military operations in Ukraine, marking their significant involvement since the Korean War in the 1950s.
Cho reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to aiding the Ukrainian populace, declaring readiness to assist if North Korean prisoners express a desire to move to South Korea. According to Ukrainian data, over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have reportedly been killed or wounded in combat engagements in Ukraine as of early January 2025.
The involvement of North Korean forces in the ongoing conflict includes participation in the Kursh region of Russia. Recent updates from Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, presented by Kyrylo Budanov, indicate that these troops are acquiring essential combat experience. Furthermore, Budanov mentioned advancements in the weaponry of North Korean troops, as the Russians have modernized their KN-23 missiles to enhance accuracy.
As of February, reports indicate that the North Korean military has suffered approximately 4,000 soldier casualties in the fighting within the Kursh region, amidst ongoing discussions about their role in the conflict and potential relocation options for prisoners of war.
The ongoing discussions between Ukraine and South Korea concerning North Korean prisoners of war highlight a significant international dynamic in the context of the conflict in Ukraine. South Korea’s readiness to accept these soldiers underscores a humanitarian approach, while the presence of North Korean troops on the battlefield reveals their increasing involvement in the war. The casualties reported indicate serious losses on the part of North Korean forces, suggesting a complex and evolving military landscape in the region.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
