South Korea Summons Ukraine Envoy Over Prisoner Disclosure
South Korea called in Ukraine's envoy on Sept. 28.
Leaders wanted an explanation and an apology. This followed President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's disclosure about two North Korean prisoners of war.
Zelenskyy said Ukraine transferred them to South Korea. Seoul said the transfer was supposed to stay secret.
Seoul accused Ukraine of breaking a secrecy agreement. Ukraine's presidential office denied agreeing to any secrecy deal.
Zelenskyy revealed the transfer during a Sept. 23 speech.
He spoke at the United Nations. Seoul said secrecy was meant to protect the prisoners and their families.
A Ukrainian aide said Zelenskyy shared no personal details about them. Ukraine captured the two men in Russia's Kursk region.
This happened in early 2025. Seoul says the men wanted to come to South Korea.
Key Terms 4
- Zelenskyy President of Ukraine.
- prisoners of war Soldiers captured by an enemy during fighting.
- Kursk region Area in Russia where fighting took place.
- envoy A diplomat who represents their country abroad.