Seoul and Kyiv Engage in Talks for Transfer of North Korean POWs to South Korea

Ukraine is in talks with South Korea to transfer two North Korean soldiers captured during the ongoing conflict. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul highlighted that under local law, North Koreans are viewed as citizens, needing their consent for relocation. The discussions arise from the deployment of North Korean troops aiding Russia, who have faced significant casualties in battle.

On March 17, 2025, Ukraine entered negotiations with South Korea regarding the transfer of two North Korean soldiers who were captured by Ukrainian forces. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul engaged in a telephone conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, to explore the details of this potential transfer.

According to Cho, under South Korean law, individuals from North Korea are deemed citizens of South Korea; however, it is essential that the prisoners express a willingness to move to South Korea. This discussion arises in the context of a larger military deployment, where up to 12,000 North Korean troops were sent to Russia’s Kursk Oblast to aid in countering Ukraine’s cross-border operations.

Two North Korean soldiers became prisoners of war on January 11, 2025, as reported by Ukrainian sources. President Volodymyr Zelensky previously indicated that North Korean forces supporting Russia experienced heavy casualties, with approximately 4,000 losses, of which two-thirds were fatalities. The military intelligence chief of Ukraine, Kyrylo Budanov, attributed these significant losses to the North Korean troops’ lack of combat experience and their reliance on outdated assault tactics.

In summary, ongoing discussions between South Korea and Ukraine highlight the legal complexities and humanitarian considerations regarding the transfer of North Korean POWs. Foreign Minister Cho’s acknowledgment of South Korea’s stance on citizenship adds a layer of depth to this diplomatic dialogue, while the backdrop of military conflicts underscores the urgency of the situation.

In conclusion, the negotiations between South Korea and Ukraine regarding the transfer of North Korean soldiers represent a significant diplomatic move influenced by broader military dynamics. The legal implications under South Korean law and the expressed willingness of the POWs are pivotal to the discussions, while the high casualty rates among North Korean troops reflect their operational challenges in the ongoing conflict. This situation underscores both humanitarian concerns and international relations in the context of the current geopolitical landscape.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com