South Korea Offers to Accept North Korean Soldiers Captured in Ukraine

South Korea has declared its readiness to accept any North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces who express a desire to relocate to the South, in line with its constitutional principles and international legal standards.

According to a statement from the South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs, North Korean soldiers are considered South Korean citizens under the country’s constitution.

The ministry emphasized that the repatriation of prisoners must respect individual free will, in accordance with international law. Officials also noted that individuals should not be returned to locations where they may face persecution against their will.

The South Korean government has communicated its position to Ukrainian authorities and intends to continue consultations on the matter.

Earlier, a North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces expressed his intention to seek asylum in South Korea, according to The Chosun Ilbo. Identified as Ri Mo, he stated he was “80% determined” to defect and planned to apply for refugee status before relocating to Seoul.