(EDITORIAL from The Korea Times on Oct. 12)

Seoul and Kyiv must find a way to resolve their differences, following the recall of South Korea's ambassador to Ukraine, Park Ki-chang. The ambassador was summoned by President Lee Jae Myung due to Ukraine's disclosure that two North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) captured in 2025 are now in South Korea. Recalling an ambassador is considered one of the strongest diplomatic actions a country can take, following expelling the ambassador or severing ties altogether.

The last time South Korea did this was in 2008, when an ambassador was recalled to Japan over the Dokdo islet issue.

South Korea's frustrations stem from Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's sudden and unilateral disclosure during a UN speech that the North Korean POWs had been transferred to South Korea. This disclosure came as a surprise to Seoul. In the following weeks, Ukraine denied having any agreement in place to keep the information confidential, an agreement intended to protect the POWs and their families still in North Korea. After Ukraine's apologies fell short of Seoul's demands, the diplomatic rift widened.

In August and September, Zelenskyy projected that more North Korean soldiers might be sent to support Russia's war efforts. The sensitive issue of the North Korean POWs, especially as North Korea has categorized South Korea as a hostile nation, is causing concerns. The unilateral disclosure and denial may be seen as undoing the good faith between Seoul and Kyiv.

However, diplomacy requires balancing competing interests. Sometimes, an unwavering hard-line stance can leave little room for maneuver in today's complex global order. Both foreign ministries have signaled their willingness to continue dialogue. Seoul has invited the South Korean ambassador to Kyiv to explain Ukraine's position.

South Korea remains committed to upholding international law and de-escalating the conflict, providing humanitarian assistance and further aid to Kyiv. Ukraine, despite its struggles, remains vital to European security. South Korea's participation in Ukraine's postwar reconstruction and continued partnership with Kyiv would serve Seoul's broader foreign policy objectives.

To restore trust and transparency, South Korea and Ukraine should work together to resolve their differences and prevent further strain on their relationship.