South Korea to Recall Envoy to Ukraine Amid Dispute Over NK POWs
South Korea has decided to recall its ambassador to Ukraine due to a diplomatic dispute over the disclosure of North Korean POWs.
South Korea has decided to recall its ambassador to Ukraine due to a diplomatic dispute over the disclosure of North Korean POWs.
South Korea's foreign ministry announced on October 8 that it will recall its ambassador to Ukraine following a diplomatic dispute regarding the transfer of North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) to Seoul.
The conflict arose after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed the transfer of two North Korean soldiers during a speech at the U.N. General Assembly. South Korea has demanded an official explanation and an apology from Ukraine, asserting that there was a prior agreement to keep the matter confidential.
Foreign Minister Cho Hyun emphasized the importance of protecting the soldiers and their families still in North Korea, noting that the Ukrainian side had initially requested confidentiality.
The South Korean government expressed strong concerns after Ukraine denied the existence of a confidentiality agreement. Cho stated that while Ukraine's acting ambassador provided an apology, it did not meet South Korea's expectations, prompting the decision to recall Ambassador Park Ki-chang.
The South Korean government aims to resolve the ongoing issues through diplomatic channels while maintaining its relationship with Ukraine.
Where it matters
Related coverage
South Korea and Norway Discuss Defense and Technology Cooperation
S. Korea, U.S. Agree to Hold Key Defense Talks After Midterm Elections
USFK Chief States 'Conditions Have Changed' for OPCON Transfer
