Published on 28/09/2026 – 5:49 GMT+2
South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung’s office has formally requested an apology from Ukraine following the latter’s disclosure of an agreed-upon confidential transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war to Seoul.
The dispute arose after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed last week that Ukraine had handed over the two North Korean soldiers, describing their capture as particularly challenging. The revelation has strained diplomatic relations and raises concerns about Kyiv’s ability to secure future military support from allies, including South Korea, amid ongoing Russian bombardment.
In a statement on X, President Lee expressed disappointment over Ukraine’s decision to publicize the transfer without maintaining confidentiality. Ukrainian officials attempted to downplay the incident, with presidential aide Dmytro Lytvyn arguing that transparency about the soldiers’ transfer was consistent with Ukraine’s status as an “open country.”
Seoul, however, labeled the disclosure a unilateral breach of trust. Senior presidential secretary Seong Ghi-hong condemned the action as a “very serious matter,” emphasizing that the Ukrainian presidency’s denial of the confidentiality agreement further undermined bilateral relations. The South Korean government has called for an official explanation and apology to address the damage caused.
Ukraine captured one of the soldiers, who identified himself as a 17-year-old conscript from a reconnaissance unit, during clashes in the previous year. He reportedly sought to live a “normal life” in South Korea after deserting his post. The pair’s transfer had been conducted under a non-disclosure agreement to avoid escalating tensions with North Korea, which has exploited their capture for domestic propaganda.
Analysts warn the controversy could intensify hostility from North Korea, complicating Seoul’s strategic interests. Meanwhile, South Korea’s cautious approach to military aid for Ukraine—citing domestic restrictions on weapons exports—may face further strain as the dispute unfolds. The Korean government continues to weigh its options for defensive support amid regional and diplomatic challenges.