Seoul, Kyiv discuss fate of North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha have agreed to work toward resolving the status of two North Korean prisoners of war in line with international law and humanitarian principles.

According to Korean media, the issue was discussed during a bilateral meeting in France held on the sidelines of a G7 foreign ministers’ gathering.

The discussions focused on two North Korean servicemen who were captured by Ukrainian forces in January last year while fighting alongside Russian troops. Seoul has indicated its willingness to receive the prisoners following consultations with Kyiv, citing information that the individuals do not wish to return to North Korea.

South Korea also received assurances from Ukraine that the captured soldiers would not be transferred to Russia, despite Moscow having placed them on a list for a potential prisoner exchange.

During his visit, Cho Hyun also participated in the G7 foreign ministers’ meeting, where global and maritime security issues were addressed. He additionally held bilateral talks with several counterparts, including officials from the United States and France.

Tamilla Hasanova