Ukraine’s Stance on North Korean POWs and Implications for South Korea

Ukraine’s Ambassador to South Korea, Dmytro Ponomarenko, affirmed that North Korean POWs will not be treated as bargaining tools in negotiations, emphasizing adherence to international law. Discussions with South Korea are ongoing regarding the captured soldiers. Ponomarenko warned of the implications of North Korea’s military role in Ukraine and advocated for military cooperation between Ukraine and South Korea.

Dmytro Ponomarenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to South Korea, stated that North Korean soldiers held as prisoners of war will not be treated as a “bargaining issue” in negotiations. He emphasized that Ukraine aims to resolve this matter in alignment with international law and humanitarian principles, amidst ongoing discussions between Kyiv and Seoul regarding the captured North Korean soldiers.

The ambassador clarified that any decisions regarding the North Korean soldiers’ future will be guided by international law and the rights of individuals, advocating for dialogue among the relevant parties. When asked about negotiations with Seoul, he indicated that it is “premature to discuss any specific timelines for making a decision.”

Ponomarenko acknowledged the official communications from South Korea concerning the captured soldiers, affirming Ukraine’s consideration of Seoul’s concerns. Furthermore, he highlighted the potential long-term effects of North Korea’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict, suggesting that North Korea may have received military benefits from Russia in return for its assistance.

He underscored the importance for South Korea to recognize the implications of North Korean military activities in Ukraine, asserting that the territory serves as a testing ground for weapons which could subsequently be used against South Korea. Ponomarenko advocated for stronger military-technical cooperation between Ukraine and South Korea as a mutual interest.

Historically, Ukrainian forces captured two North Korean military personnel in January 2025, marking the first such occurrence. Though wounded, they were safely transported to Kyiv for further investigation. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remarked that any potential exchange of these prisoners would depend on North Korean leader Kim Jong Un facilitating a deal for captured Ukrainian soldiers held by Russia.

Moreover, South Korea has planned discussions with Ukraine concerning the possible transfer of these North Korean soldiers, contingent upon a formal request. Reports indicate that Russia is deploying North Korean soldiers in its military operations, specifically within marine and airborne units.

In summary, Ukraine is committed to handling the issue of North Korean prisoners of war according to international law, refraining from using them as negotiation tools. Ambassador Ponomarenko underscored the mutual interests of Ukraine and South Korea in addressing North Korea’s military involvement in the conflict, advocating for enhanced cooperation. Additionally, the historical context surrounding the captured soldiers and the ongoing dialogues indicate a delicate, strategic approach required by both nations.

Original Source: newsukraine.rbc.ua