South Korea Recalls Ambassador to Ukraine Over POW Disclosure Dispute

SEOUL — South Korea announced Thursday that it is recalling its ambassador to Ukraine, escalating a diplomatic confrontation triggered by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent disclosure regarding the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war.

The decision follows threats from South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, who stated that unspecified punitive measures would be enacted if Kyiv refuses to apologize for the revelation. The incident has strained relations between the two nations, which have historically maintained strong cooperation.

South Korea’s Foreign Ministry did not specify when Ambassador Park Hee-chang will return to Seoul. In a statement, the ministry affirmed that consultations with Ukraine will continue and expressed hope that the dispute would be resolved amicably.

The diplomatic row began after Zelenskyy discussed the transfer of the North Korean soldiers during his address to the United Nations General Assembly on September 23. South Korean officials have accused Ukraine of breaching a non-disclosure agreement tied to the mid-September transfer. Kyiv has denied that any such agreement was ever made.

The two soldiers were part of thousands of North Korean troops deployed to assist Russia in its war against Ukraine. Captured in early 2025, the men expressed a desire to resettle in South Korea, fearing persecution if returned to the North. South Korea, which considers North Korea part of its territory, has a policy of accepting and financially supporting defectors.

Seoul stated that the non-disclosure agreement was established to protect the safety of the soldiers and their relatives still in the North. However, analysts suggest the liberal government may also be concerned that publicizing the arrivals could hinder efforts to improve relations with Pyongyang.

While North Korean state media has not yet commented on the transfer, the regime has historically reacted with anger to major defections, often accusing South Korea of kidnapping its citizens. Since 2019, North Korea has shunned dialogues with Seoul and Washington, focusing instead on expanding its nuclear capabilities.

It remains unclear what additional steps South Korea may take. Experts note that maintaining good relations with Ukraine serves South Korea’s national interests, particularly regarding intelligence on North Korea’s growing military cooperation with Russia. Furthermore, collaboration with Kyiv is seen as vital for Seoul’s partnerships with Western nations supporting Ukraine.

Observers believe Zelenskyy disclosed the transfer to highlight the threat posed by North Korea’s military support for Russia, aiming to secure greater international aid. South Korea has provided $445 million in humanitarian assistance to Ukraine since 2022. In July, President Lee pledged an additional $100 million during a meeting with Zelenskyy.