South Korea to recall its ambassador to Ukraine over North Korean POW dispute

Seoul recalled its ambassador to Ukraine following a diplomatic dispute over the transfer of North Korean prisoners of war to the country. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy disclosed the transfer to South Korea on September 24, which prompted an accusation from South Korean President Lee Jae-myung that Ukraine had breached a confidentiality agreement.

South Korea had pledged to accept North Korean prisoners of war in 2025, but the disclosure of the transfer raised concerns about potential issues. Ukraine initially denied the existence of such an agreement, but Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha later described the situation as a "diplomatic misunderstanding." South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun responded by stating that Sybiha had issued an apology, but emphasized that it was insufficient and that resolute measures would be taken.

The recall comes amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine, with South Korea supporting Kyiv and strengthening ties with Russia, which has sent tens of thousands of North Korean soldiers to join Russian troops in the conflict.