Ukraine and South Korea Explore Cooperation Over North Korean Prisoners of War
South Korea is willing to accept North Korean POWs and cooperate with Ukraine for their treatment. Despite significant losses, North Korean troops are actively involved in the Ukraine conflict, receiving military experience and modernization of their weaponry through cooperation with Russian forces.
South Korea has proposed collaborating with Ukraine regarding the treatment of North Korean prisoners of war, offering to accept them within its territory. In a recent phone call, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul expressed South Korea’s willingness to help these North Korean soldiers if they wish to relocate.
U.S. and Ukrainian sources indicate that North Korea has deployed thousands of troops to support Russian military efforts in Ukraine, marking the first significant involvement from Pyongyang in the conflict since the Korean War in the 1950s. Minister Cho emphasized South Korea’s dedication to supporting Ukraine and assisting North Korean prisoners.
As of January 2025, reports from Ukraine indicate that over 3,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed or wounded in combat. Despite these losses, intelligence suggests that North Korea may dispatch additional troops to aid Russia.
Last year, North Korea officially sent their military units to participate in the conflict, particularly in the Kursk region. Ukrainian Defense Intelligence head, Kyrylo Budanov, noted that North Korean forces are gaining combat experience and enhancing their weaponry through this engagement, specifically through cooperation with Russian forces.
Earlier reports indicate that by early February, the North Korean military had lost around 4,000 personnel in the ongoing conflict in Kursk, showcasing both the risks and challenges faced by these troops in a foreign war environment.
In summary, South Korea’s readiness to accept North Korean POWs highlights its commitment to humanitarian efforts in the context of the Ukraine conflict. Despite significant losses among North Korean troops, their continued involvement reflects a troubling escalation in military support for Russia, as they gain combat experience in unfavorable conditions.
Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua
