Captured North Korean Soldier Seeks Refuge in South Korea, Lawmaker Reports

A captured North Korean soldier, referred to as Ri, expressed his intention to defect to South Korea during a conversation with lawmaker Rep. Yu Yong-weon. Ri inquired about life in Seoul, including his desire for surgery and a normal life. Another soldier, Paek, is still contemplating defection, while lawmakers urge protection for captured North Korean soldiers.

A North Korean soldier who was captured by Ukrainian forces has expressed his desire to relocate to South Korea, as reported by South Korean lawmaker Rep. Yu Yong-weon during a press conference. The soldier, identified only by the surname Ri, inquired about the possibility of living freely in Seoul and whether he could undergo surgery for his injuries. He sustained severe wounds in combat in Russia’s Kursk region and is currently under Ukrainian care.

Rep. Yu recounted a 70-minute conversation he had with Ri, who conveyed a longing to meet his parents and seek a semblance of normalcy, including having a home and starting a family. In an interview with the Chosun Ilbo newspaper, Ri reiterated his intention to move to South Korea. The South Korean government has indicated a willingness to offer protection and support should the soldier seek assistance to transit to Seoul.

Another captured soldier, surnamed Paek, expressed that he needs additional time to contemplate the decision to defect. When questioned about the extreme measures North Korean soldiers take upon capture, Paek recounted witnessing fellow soldiers opting for self-destruction rather than capture, reflecting the perception that being captured represents betrayal to their homeland.

Rep. Yu urged diplomatic entities to take every possible action to prevent the forced repatriation of North Korean soldiers from Ukraine back to their country of origin, thus highlighting the critical need for humane treatment of prisoners of war. (Yonhap)

The captured North Korean soldier’s desire to seek asylum in South Korea highlights significant issues concerning the treatment of defectors. The willingness of the South Korean government to offer support reinforces their commitment to human rights. Furthermore, the caution expressed by another soldier regarding the decision to defect illustrates the dire circumstances faced by North Korean military personnel. The call from Rep. Yu for diplomatic efforts underscores the international responsibility toward the treatment of captured soldiers.

Original Source: www.koreatimes.co.kr