South Korea and Ukraine Discuss Repatriation of North Korean POWs
South Korea’s Foreign Minister discussed with Ukraine the repatriation of North Korean soldiers, considered South Korean citizens, and their potential asylum requests, revealing complex legal and diplomatic issues.
On March 17, 2023, South Korea and Ukraine engaged in phone discussions regarding the repatriation of North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) held in Ukraine. The South Korean Foreign Ministry indicated that these POWs are recognized as South Korean citizens under domestic law.
South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul spoke with Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha about the situation of two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine. Cho elaborated that, according to South Korea’s Constitution, the soldiers would be considered South Korean citizens, and the country is willing to accept their defection should they express such a desire.
Notably, on February 19, 2023, the South Korean media outlet Chosun Ilbo reported that an interview with the captured North Korean soldiers revealed one of them may have expressed interest in seeking asylum in South Korea.
Additionally, the article mentions reports regarding other related developments, including false claims by political figures regarding the military situation in the Kursk Oblast and increased deployment of North Korean soldiers to Russia.
Lastly, it was mentioned that Ukrainian leadership accused North Korea of supplying a significant portion of ammunition utilized by Russian forces, further complicating the ongoing geopolitical tensions.
In summary, discussions between South Korea and Ukraine revolve around the repatriation of North Korean POWs, underscoring the legal complexities involved in their citizenship status under South Korean law. Furthermore, the potential for asylum requests by these soldiers highlights the fraught nature of international military and diplomatic relations concerning North Korea.
Original Source: euromaidanpress.com
