Bipartisan Support for Accepting North Korean POWs in South Korea

The Democratic Party of Korea has backed the acceptance of North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine as defectors under existing laws. The People Power Party previously advocated for their humanitarian protection, calling attention to their rights and the need for support from South Korea. Bipartisan efforts are underway to ensure the safety and humane treatment of these soldiers if deployed to South Korea.

On February 26, 2025, the Democratic Party of Korea announced its support for accepting North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine as defectors under existing laws for displaced North Koreans. Rep. Jin Sung-joon emphasized that they do not oppose these defections, but cautioned against using the situation for political gain, advising that it be handled with discretion to prevent aggravating Russia or North Korea.

The ruling People Power Party previously introduced a resolution advocating for humanitarian protection of the North Korean soldiers. Rep. Kim Gi-hyeon, who initiated the resolution, condemned human rights abuses faced by these soldiers, asserting their right to protection under the South Korean Constitution. The resolution garnered support from 22 lawmakers, including several prominent defectors.

The People Power Party is actively pushing for measures to facilitate the defectors’ transition to South Korea. Rep. Kwon Young-se, the party chair, called on the South Korean government to support the soldiers’ defection, while Rep. Sung Il-jong, head of the National Assembly’s defense committee, urged intelligence and foreign affairs agencies to assist the soldiers in escaping potential punishment or mistreatment if returned to North Korea.

Rep. Sung highlighted that failure to act might condemn the North Korean soldiers to severe consequences, including torture or imprisonment. He articulated the urgency of ensuring that these defectors, abandoned by their regime, find refuge in South Korea, reinforcing that the nation should uphold their human rights.

The Democratic Party of Korea’s recent endorsement of accepting North Korean POWs reflects a growing bipartisan consensus on the need for humanitarian action. This development highlights the legal rights of defectors while addressing the complexities of international relations with Russia and North Korea. Support from both major parties emphasizes the urgency of ensuring the safety and well-being of these soldiers within South Korea’s legal framework.

Original Source: asianews.network