S. Korea and Ukraine Top Diplomats Discuss Repatriation of NK POWs

News Summary

South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul held phone talks with his Ukrainian counterpart, Andrii Sybiha, to discuss the repatriation of two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine.

Cho stated that, under South Korea’s Constitution, the captured soldiers are considered South Korean citizens and can defect if they choose.

Additionally, Cho affirmed South Korea’s commitment to aiding Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction and promoting peace in collaboration with the international community.

Commentary

This marks a significant step forward in the repatriation process of the two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine.

The high-level discussions between the two countries’ top diplomats indicate that the repatriation can now proceed with official government support.

South Korea’s foreign minister has demonstrated a strong commitment to bringing the captured soldiers to South Korea, a move that is both legally and morally justified.

If successfully carried out, this repatriation could have a profound impact on advancing North Korean human rights, which will pose a serious challenge to the Kim regime.