South Korea May Seek Transfer of Captured North Korean Soldiers From Ukraine

South Korea has announced its intention to engage in consultations with Ukraine regarding the possible transfer of captured North Korean soldiers. This follows recent reports confirming the capture of two North Korean servicemen by Ukrainian forces.

According to Yonhap News, South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lee Jae-woong stated on Tuesday that the government is prepared to initiate discussions with Ukraine if an official request for the transfer is made.

“Under our Constitution, North Korean soldiers are recognized as citizens of the Republic of Korea. Accordingly, the government plans to conduct negotiations with Ukraine should they seek to transfer these individuals to South Korea,” Lee said.

South Korea’s Constitution defines the entire Korean Peninsula as its territory, thereby acknowledging all North Koreans as its citizens. Despite this provision, Lee noted that neither of the captured soldiers has expressed an interest in being transferred to South Korea.

This development comes after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared a video featuring one of the captured North Korean soldiers. In the footage, the soldier reportedly expressed a desire to remain in Ukraine.

President Zelenskyy also commented on the matter on X, emphasizing the importance of uncovering the truth about Russia’s actions.

The South Korean intelligence agency has confirmed the capture and indicated its intention to maintain close coordination with Ukraine, ensuring the exchange of relevant information regarding the case.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also clarified that communication between the two countries on this issue is ongoing, although no formal requests have been filed as of now.

Earlier, Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean soldiers in Russia’s Kursk region during a special operation.