South Korea has recalled its ambassador to Ukraine, marking a sharp escalation in a diplomatic spat triggered by the transfer of two North Korean soldiers.
The dispute began last month when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Kyiv had handed over two captured North Korean troops to Seoul, a move that South Korea claims violated an agreement to keep the operation secret.
The soldiers, among thousands from North Korea fighting for Russia, had publicly stated they wanted to return to the South. Seoul’s Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon‑joo lodged a formal complaint in September, and Foreign Minister Cho Hyun said he had received a partial apology that fell short of expectations.
In a media briefing, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Heorhii Tykhyi denied that Ukraine’s Foreign Minister had issued an apology. Both sides conferred but remain at odds over the legality of the transfer and the need for a full contrite statement.
South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said it would continue consultations with Kyiv, hoping for a smooth resolution of “various outstanding issues.” The recall follows the earlier announcement of a $100 million assistance package to Ukraine, expanding on prior non‑lethal aid such as helmets, personal armour and medical supplies.
The incident highlights the delicate balance South Korea must maintain: pursuing friendly ties with both Moscow and Beijing while supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia. Rome faces the risk of Russian retaliation should Seoul lift arms sanctions, adding further tension to an already fraught geopolitical landscape.
