Germany’s Embassy in North Korea Remains Closed Amid Ukraine Conflict

Germany has decided not to reopen its embassy in North Korea due to the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This decision reflects the strained relations due to North Korea’s support for Russia and Germany joining the U.N. Command regarding the Korean War armistice. Other nations are resuming diplomatic ventures in North Korea, but Germany maintains its position until the conflict resolves.

Germany has reiterated its decision to keep its embassy in North Korea closed while the conflict in Ukraine persists. A German government official stated this position on Tuesday, emphasizing the implications of North Korea’s involvement in the war. “Under these circumstances of the ongoing conflict and North Korea involved in Ukraine, we cannot see the possibility to reopen the embassy,” the official noted.

The embassy was originally closed in early 2020, alongside similar diplomatic actions by countries such as Britain and Sweden due to North Korea’s COVID-19 restrictions. In early 2024, a German diplomat who oversees East Asia visited North Korea to assess the conditions of the embassy and the local environment but did not lead to a change in stance.

Germany’s position is further complicated by North Korea’s military support to Russia during the conflict. This has been a point of contention, particularly after Germany joined the U.S.-led United Nations Command to oversee the Korean War armistice last August. This action has prompted North Korea to criticize Germany’s involvement, viewing it as a destabilizing measure.

Currently, among Western nations, Sweden has resumed diplomatic operations in North Korea, which coincided with similar moves by Poland and Switzerland. According to the South Korean unification ministry, there are presently 15 foreign embassies functioning in North Korea, including those from Brazil, Iran, India, Nigeria, and Nicaragua.

In summary, Germany will not reopen its embassy in North Korea while the Ukraine war continues, reflecting its disapproval of North Korea’s military involvement. The decision is in alignment with broader diplomatic trends, as other nations resume operations amidst the ongoing geopolitical tensions, yet Germany remains steadfast in its stance, prioritizing the implications of current conflicts.

Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr