(2nd LD) S. Korea to withdraw some embassy staff from Ukraine amid N.K. POW dispute

South Korea has decided to withdraw some of its embassy staff from Ukraine, according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday. The decision comes after Kyiv failed to take steps to resolve a diplomatic dispute that has been ongoing for weeks, and while Ukraine continues to face threats of airstrikes. The move escalates the diplomatic tensions further, following Seoul's recall of its ambassador to Ukraine, Park Ki-chang, last week.

This recall was prompted by the public disclosure by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on September 23, revealing the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea. The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed its position to Ukraine through various channels, but concluded that it had not taken any constructive steps.

The Ministry made this decision after carefully considering the circumstances, including the persistent risk of airstrikes across Ukraine. The spokesperson did not disclose the exact number of staff members who would be leaving or when the withdrawal would occur. However, it was mentioned that necessary diplomatic communication will continue through the chargé d'affaires, and all personnel providing consular services will remain in Ukraine.