South Korea and Ukraine discussed the repatriation of North Korean POWs held in Ukraine during a call between their foreign ministers. The captured soldiers are considered South Korean citizens, and their defection could be accepted. Media reports revealed one POW’s desire to seek asylum in South Korea, amidst ongoing military activity in the region.
On March 17, South Korea and Ukraine engaged in discussions regarding the potential repatriation of North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) currently held by Ukraine. The South Korean Foreign Ministry announced that these individuals are recognized as South Korean citizens under national law.
South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul communicated with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha about this matter, emphasizing that if the captured North Korean soldiers express a desire to defect, South Korea would accept their request.
Recent reports highlighted that an interview conducted by South Korean media with the two POWs—identified as a sniper-scout and a shooter—showed one was inclined to seek asylum in South Korea.
Additionally, broader geopolitical developments include ongoing military activity in the region, such as the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from Sudzha while maintaining a presence in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, as well as recent reports of increased deployment of North Korean soldiers to Russia.
In conclusion, South Korea is actively engaging with Ukraine to facilitate the repatriation of North Korean POWs. The recognition of these soldiers as South Korean citizens adds a significant legal dimension to their potential defection. Recent interviews suggest that at least one POW is considering seeking asylum in South Korea, reflecting the complex dynamics of international diplomacy and human rights involving North Korea.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
