Understand
South Korea recalls Ukraine ambassador over prisoner-of-war row
Overview
South Korea has announced it will recall its ambassador to Ukraine following a diplomatic dispute over the transfer of two captured North Korean soldiers. The row intensified after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly revealed the transfer to Seoul in September, which South Korea claimed breached an agreement to keep the arrangement confidential. Disagreements over whether Ukraine apologised and the existence of a non-disclosure agreement have further strained relations between the two countries.
Key points
- South Korea is recalling its ambassador to Ukraine amid an escalating diplomatic dispute.
- The spat began after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced the transfer of two captured North Korean soldiers to Seoul.
- Seoul claims Ukraine breached an agreement to keep the prisoner transfer a secret, while Zelensky's office denies any non-disclosure agreement existed.
- The two captured North Korean soldiers had previously been supporting Russian forces in the Ukraine war.
- South Korea's Foreign Ministry stated it will continue consultations with Ukraine in the hope of resolving outstanding issues.