Kyiv and Seoul are discussing the handling of North Korean POWs captured in Ukraine. South Korea’s Foreign Minister proposed cooperation, highlighting South Korea’s readiness to accept these soldiers if they seek to go there. Assessments indicate significant casualties among North Korean troops supporting Russian forces in the conflict.
Recent discussions between Ukraine and South Korea have revolved around the handling of North Korean prisoners of war (POWs). Reports indicate that Ukraine has captured North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region of Russia, with assessments suggesting thousands more have been killed or injured.
In a telephone conversation on Monday, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul requested Ukraine’s cooperation regarding the captured North Korean troops. This engagement marks a significant event, as North Korea has committed a large number of its soldiers to support Russian military efforts in Ukraine, representing its first substantial military involvement since the Korean War.
Minister Cho expressed South Korea’s commitment to assist the Ukrainian populace and assured that any North Korean POWs captured by Ukraine will be welcomed in South Korea, should they choose to relocate there. Reports estimate that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been either killed or wounded in the Russian conflict by early January 2025.
In conclusion, the cooperation between Ukraine and South Korea signifies a thoughtful approach to handling North Korean soldiers captured during the conflict. The outreach by South Korea to accept these POWs highlights its humanitarian stance while clarifying the complexities of North Korean involvement in the ongoing war. As the situation develops, the fate of these soldiers remains a subject of international concern.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
