Ukraine's diplomatic row with South Korea won't go away: FM Sybiha reveals why
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha (photo: Getty Images)
A dispute between Ukraine and South Korea over the transfer of two prisoners of war has escalated following Seoul's decision to recall its ambassador, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said.
According to the foreign minister, Ukraine was aware of South Korea's decision to temporarily recall its ambassador. Kyiv had also invited the South Korean diplomat for a meeting.
Sybiha stressed that Ukraine considers the matter resolved. He said the disagreement stemmed from differing interpretations of the confidentiality arrangements at various stages of the prisoners of war transfer process.
"We consider the matter closed," the minister said.
At the same time, Sybiha assured that Ukraine had fulfilled all its obligations. In particular, Kyiv handed over two prisoners of war to South Korea, describing the move as a gesture of goodwill.
"Ukraine complies with the Geneva Conventions. Ukraine respects South Korea's Constitution, under which these individuals are considered South Korean citizens. That is why we made this decision," the Ukrainian foreign minister explained.
Despite the diplomatic tensions, Sybiha believes Kyiv and Seoul have significant potential for further cooperation. He emphasized their shared interests and prospects for mutually beneficial relations.
"We have a very promising, mutually beneficial future ahead of us. I believe diplomacy will certainly prevail in our relations, and this episode will be left behind," he concluded.
Ukraine-South Korea dispute
The dispute between Ukraine and South Korea began after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced at the UN General Assembly on September 23 that Kyiv had transferred to Seoul two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces in Russia's Kursk region in January 2025.
South Korea said it expected the information to remain confidential, while the Ukrainian Presidential Office denied reaching any non-disclosure agreement.
On October 8, South Korea announced that it was recalling its ambassador from Ukraine. Seoul said it intended to continue consultations to resolve the outstanding issues.
