South Korea Commits to Accept North Korean Soldiers Captured in Ukraine
South Korea has pledged to accept North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine, with Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul affirming their citizenship status under South Korean law. The commitment aims to prevent their repatriation to North Korea despite potential legal and political challenges.
On Monday, South Korea reaffirmed its commitment to welcoming North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine. This affirmation comes in light of concerns regarding potential legal and political obstacles that may lead to these soldiers’ repatriation to North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK).
During a phone conversation with Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul emphasized that the two North Korean soldiers held in Russia’s Kursk region are regarded as citizens of the Republic of Korea (ROK) under the South Korean constitution. The ministry underscored Seoul’s intent to protect these soldiers and to cooperate with Ukraine on the matter.
Seoul’s position indicates a readiness to engage in diplomatic discussions regarding the fate of the captured soldiers, reflecting South Korea’s commitment to uphold human rights. This situation illustrates the complex interplay of international relations and the legal status of individuals in conflict zones.
In summary, South Korea has reiterated its willingness to accept and protect North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine, emphasizing their status as ROK citizens. The engagement between South Korean and Ukrainian officials signals a potential cooperative effort to address the legal challenges posed by their repatriation to North Korea. This situation showcases the intricate dynamics of international relations amidst ongoing conflicts.
Original Source: www.nknews.org
