Ukraine and South Korea Collaborate on North Korean Prisoners of War
South Korea proposes collaboration with Ukraine to accept North Korean prisoners of war, with intentions to assist Ukraine amidst the conflict. Over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been reported killed or wounded in combat, indicating significant involvement in the war. South Korea expresses readiness to aid these soldiers if they desire relocation.
The South Korean government has proposed collaboration with Ukraine regarding North Korean prisoners of war. Reports indicate that South Korea is prepared to welcome these individuals onto its territory. In a recent telephone discussion, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul sought Kyiv’s cooperation in this matter, expressing a willingness to accept all North Korean soldiers who may wish to relocate.
Cho Tae-yul emphasized that the South Korean government is committed to supporting the Ukrainian populace. He reassured Ukrainian officials that assistance would be offered if North Korean soldiers expressed an interest in coming to South Korea. Current estimates indicate that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been injured or killed in combat since the commencement of the conflict, underscoring the dire situation for these troops.
The involvement of North Korean forces in the war against Ukraine marks a significant shift from their historical military posture since the 1950s. Following their deployment in the previous year, they have been engaged in operations in the Kursk region of Russia. Reports from Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence, led by Kyrylo Budanov, highlighted that North Korean soldiers are acquiring crucial combat experience and enhancing their military capabilities through joint engagements in this conflict.
Furthermore, Budanov revealed that Russia has been actively modernizing North Korea’s KN-23 missile systems, improving their precision in combat. Despite enduring considerable losses—approximately 4,000 soldiers—North Korea appears poised to send more troops to support Russian military efforts in Ukraine, as indicated by Seoul’s Joint Chiefs of Staff.
In summary, South Korea’s initiative to assist North Korean prisoners of war reflects its ongoing commitment to support Ukraine amid the conflict. The significant casualties among North Korean troops signal a troubling involvement in the war, as they gain experience and receive technological support from Russia. This evolving situation may lead to further developments regarding the treatment and relocation of these prisoners.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
