South Korea and Ukraine have decided to conduct a joint effort to address the situation of North Korean prisoners of war captured during the Russia-Ukraine war. The two countries agreed that the process will be carried out within the framework of international legal norms and humanitarian principles, respecting the free will of the individuals involved.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha in Tokyo during the Ukrainian minister's official visit to the Japanese capital.
Joint work announced by the ministry
In a written statement from the South Korean Foreign Ministry, it was reported that the parties agreed to work together to resolve the issue of North Korean prisoners of war in Ukraine in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles.
The statement said, "The parties had an in-depth exchange of views on important regional developments, including the war in Ukraine and developments on the Korean Peninsula."
Seoul's diplomatic effort message
South Korean Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Park Il emphasized that "constructive negotiations" are being conducted on the prisoner of war issue, stating that the Seoul government will continue its diplomatic efforts to resolve this problem.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha, who also visited the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) separating South and North Korea, highlighted the need for closer cooperation between the two countries "against threats from Russia and North Korea."
Background: Russia-North Korea strategic partnership
The Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement signed between Russia and North Korea in June 2024, which entered into force in December 2024, stipulates mutual military assistance in the event of an attack on either party.
South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) estimates that approximately 2,000 North Korean soldiers sent to the Russia-Ukraine war have been killed in combat. The Pyongyang administration has not made an official statement regarding the number of soldiers or casualties.
