Ukraine has captured North Korean soldiers in the Kursk region, prompting South Korea’s Foreign Minister to discuss their management with Ukraine. North Korea has sent thousands of troops to support Russian forces, marking its first major military engagement since the Korean War. South Korea is willing to accept captured soldiers if they wish to return.
Ukraine reported the capture of North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk region, while concerns grow over the fate of many more who are believed to have died or been injured. South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul has requested Ukraine’s collaboration in managing North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) during a recent telephone conversation with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha.
According to assessments from Ukraine, the US, and South Korea, North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russian military efforts in Ukraine. This marks North Korea’s significant involvement in a conflict since the Korean War in the 1950s. Cho emphasized South Korea’s commitment to assist the Ukrainian people and indicated that all captured North Korean soldiers who wish to return to South Korea would be accepted.
Reports suggest that by early January 2025, over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have either been killed or sustained injuries in the conflict within Russia. The situation raises serious humanitarian considerations regarding the treatment and potential repatriation of these soldiers if they so desire.
The discussions between Kyiv and Seoul focus on the fate of North Korean POWs amidst their involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. South Korea is prepared to accept returned soldiers, highlighting an international dimension concerning humanitarian treatment in warfare. The reported casualties underline the severity of the situation for North Korean troops supporting Russian efforts.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
