Ukraine sent two captured North Korean soldiers to South Korea, says Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Wednesday that Ukraine has transferred two captured North Korean soldiers to South Korea, addressing the UN General Assembly. The two North Koreans were apprehended alive in Russia's Kursk region in January 2024, marking the first such capture since North Korea joined the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

One of the soldiers attempted suicide upon realizing he would be taken prisoner. Zelensky did not provide further details about the handover. Human rights advocates urged Zelensky to repatriate the soldiers to South Korea, citing the potential risks they faced. South Korea's foreign ministry confirmed they would not comment on the matter due to safety concerns for the soldiers and their families.

In June, South Korea pledged to accept all North Korean prisoners of war who fought against Russia. Zelensky also criticized North Korea for sending soldiers to support Russia in its war against Ukraine, calling it "madness" and accusing Kim Jong Un of using North Korean soldiers as currency. North Korea has reportedly sent between 14,000 to 15,000 troops to Russia since 2024, primarily in the Kursk region, assisting in repelling Ukrainian incursions.

Additionally, North Korea has supplied Russia with artillery, mortar rounds, ballistic missiles, long-range artillery, and multiple-launch rocket systems.