South Korea announced on Thursday that it has recalled its ambassador from Ukraine. This decision was made following the escalation of diplomatic tensions between the two countries due to the disclosure of information related to the transfer of North Korean prisoners of war to Seoul.
Diplomatic tensions after Zelensky's remarks
The two countries have been at odds since the speech of Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine, at the United Nations General Assembly. In this speech, Zelensky referred to the captivity and subsequent transfer of two North Korean soldiers who were fighting alongside Russian forces. South Korea has demanded an apology from Ukraine, claiming that these remarks violated a confidentiality agreement and could endanger the families of the prisoners of war in North Korea.
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Ukraine's position and South Korea's response
Kyiv, however, has stated that no such agreement exists and wishes to improve "diplomatic understanding," but has refrained from apologizing. The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated, "The government has decided to recall its ambassador from Ukraine." The ministry expressed hope that all remaining issues between the two countries would be resolved amicably and that consultations with the Ukrainian side would continue.
Last week, Lee Jae-myung, the President of South Korea, called for a "public apology" from Kyiv and warned that if this apology is not made, South Korea would take further actions. He stated that during the exchange of prisoners, "the Ukrainian side requested confidentiality and agreed to it, but unilaterally disclosed it."
Lee also referred to the challenges ahead, saying that despite "the utmost respect," Ukraine has denied the existence of a confidentiality agreement and labeled him a liar. This issue has fueled tensions between the two countries and diminished hopes for improving relations.
Situation analysis
Bilateral tensions have also increased following the publication of an investigative report in the media regarding the shipment of fuel from South Korea to Russia via sanctioned tankers. This issue has exacerbated tensions regarding fuel supply in Ukraine and has drawn criticism. South Korea has tried to maintain balance in the Russia-Ukraine war while providing humanitarian aid and non-lethal equipment to Kyiv, but is also seeking to maintain friendly relations with Russia.
Meanwhile, North Korea has sent troops to assist Russia in reclaiming the border area of Kursk, which Ukraine had partially occupied, and has celebrated this deployment with much fanfare in its country. North Korea is attempting to strengthen its ties with Russia.
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