Zelensky Reveals Return of Two Captured North Korean Soldiers to South Korea, Raising Diplomatic Questions
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Zelensky Announces Transfer During U.N. General Assembly Speech
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said during his Sept. 23 speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York that two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces had recently been sent to South Korea.
The South Korean government did not deny the statement but maintained a cautious public stance. Seoul's Foreign Ministry said it was difficult to confirm details including the individuals' status, the timing and route of the transfer, or specific discussions between the countries involved.
South Korea Says the Matter Had Been Discussed Privately
South Korean officials said Seoul and Ukraine had agreed to keep the transfer private because of concerns involving diplomatic consequences, the safety of the captured soldiers and their families, and broader security issues surrounding the Korean Peninsula.
The two sides reportedly held dozens of behind-the-scenes discussions. South Korea said Ukraine had informed it in advance that the issue could be mentioned in Zelensky's speech, and Seoul communicated its position that details about their arrival in South Korea should not be made public.
A senior South Korean presidential official said the government had not been completely unaware of the possible mention, but said the wording shared beforehand was unclear. The official explained that a quiet process was considered necessary to handle the matter safely and smoothly.
Political Debate Grows in Seoul
The issue has drawn attention across South Korea's political landscape. Rep. Yoo Yong-won of the People Power Party said he understood that the two North Korean soldiers had arrived safely in South Korea several days earlier. He praised the government's decision to accept them but criticized the fact that the news became public through Zelensky rather than an official South Korean announcement.
President Lee Jae-myung wrote on social media platform X that the return of North Korean prisoners was a highly sensitive issue affecting diplomacy, security and the situation on the Korean Peninsula. He said keeping the matter private had been agreed upon because public disclosure could create additional problems, and expressed regret that Ukraine later made the information public.
The ruling Democratic Party also criticized the announcement. Party spokesperson Shin Hyun-young said the disclosure could affect national security and the safety of the individuals involved, adding that the soldiers' protection should remain a priority.
Focus on Security and Humanitarian Considerations
South Korean officials and lawmakers have framed the issue around humanitarian concerns, legal procedures and security considerations. The government has said decisions regarding the soldiers' treatment are based on human rights, humanitarian principles, and relevant international and domestic laws.
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