South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha discussed North Korean POWs captured in Ukraine. Cho reaffirmed their recognition as South Korean nationals, assuring them of support. Additionally, they reviewed the broader implications of the Ukraine war and reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to humanitarian aid and cooperation with the international community.
On Monday afternoon, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha engaged in a phone conversation regarding North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) captured by Ukraine. The South Korean Foreign Ministry stated that during the call, Cho reiterated that these captured North Korean soldiers are constitutionally recognized as South Korean nationals. He assured that they would be welcomed in South Korea, receiving necessary protection and support as required by law.
Cho urged for Ukraine’s cooperation on the POW matter, marking the first ministerial-level discussion regarding the repatriation of North Korean soldiers between the two countries. This issue originated from the capture of two North Korean soldiers by Ukrainian forces in January while they were involved in combat against Kyiv in the Kursk region of Russia.
The ministers also explored broader issues linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Cho reaffirmed South Korea’s commitment to closely monitor the situation and collaborate with the global community to assist Ukraine in its postwar recovery and reconstruction efforts. He pointed out the ongoing humanitarian aid provided by South Korea through the Ukraine Peace and Solidarity Initiative, launched in July 2023.
In response, Sybiha thanked South Korea for its assistance and shared the results of a recent high-level U.S.-Ukraine meeting held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The Ukrainian minister emphasized the need for international cooperation, including with South Korea, to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.
This phone call was the first direct communication between Cho and Sybiha since their previous meeting on November 25, 2024, during the Group of 7 foreign ministers’ meeting in Italy.
The phone call between South Korean and Ukrainian foreign ministers highlights the growing dialogue concerning North Korean POWs amidst the Ukraine conflict. South Korea’s commitment to protecting these soldiers as nationals exemplifies its resolve to aid Ukraine’s recovery. The ministers’ collaboration underscores the continuous support and international cooperation necessary for establishing peace and rebuilding efforts in Ukraine.
Original Source: koreajoongangdaily.joins.com
