Seoul and Kyiv Engage in Talks for Repatriation of North Korean POWs

South Korea and Ukraine’s foreign ministers discussed the repatriation of North Korean POWs held in Ukraine. Under South Korean law, these individuals are regarded as South Korean citizens, and discussions included their potential asylum. An interview has indicated that one of the prisoners expressed a desire to seek asylum in South Korea.

South Korea and Ukraine’s foreign ministers communicated on March 17 regarding the repatriation of North Korean prisoners of war held in Ukraine. As per South Korean law, these POWs are considered South Korean citizens. Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul engaged in a telephonic discussion with Ukrainian counterpart Andrii Sybiha about the circumstances surrounding two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine.

Minister Cho emphasized to Minister Sybiha that, according to the South Korean Constitution, the captured soldiers are recognized as South Korean citizens. Should they express any desire to defect, South Korea would facilitate their provision of asylum. On February 19, a South Korean publication, Chosun Ilbo, reported an interview with the prisoners; one soldier indicated a wish for asylum in South Korea.

In summation, discussions between South Korea and Ukraine aim to facilitate the potential repatriation of North Korean POWs, who under South Korean law are considered South Korean citizens. Furthermore, this dialogue emphasizes Seoul’s willingness to assist these individuals should they wish to defect.

Original Source: euromaidanpress.com