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Zelenskyy Announces Transfer of Two North Korean POWs to South Korea
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Ukraine Transfers Two North Korean Prisoners to South Korea
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told the United Nations General Assembly that Ukraine has moved two North Korean soldiers, captured by Ukrainian forces in Russia’s Kursk region in January 2025, to the Republic of Korea. The prisoners were the first known North Korean combatants seized since Pyongyang began deploying troops to support Russia in 2024. Zelenskyy noted that one of the captives attempted suicide when he realized he would become a prisoner, underscoring the difficulty of taking such fighters alive.
Background: North Korean Troops in Russia’s War
Since 2024, estimates from Ukrainian and South Korean sources place roughly 15,000 North Korean soldiers in Russia, primarily fighting along the Kursk border. In addition to personnel, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has supplied Russia with artillery shells, ballistic missiles, and other advanced weaponry, reinforcing a strategic alignment with Moscow and Beijing. Zelenskyy has repeatedly criticized Pyongyang for treating its citizens as “currency” in exchange for geopolitical gains.
Official Statements & Responses
In his UN address, Zelenskyy said the transfer was intended to respect the prisoners’ “free will” and to comply with international humanitarian law. South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs declined to confirm operational details, describing the matter as “sensitive” and emphasizing the need to protect the soldiers and their families. The ministry added that South Korea is prepared to accept the individuals if they wish to resettle, while ensuring any decision aligns with international legal standards.
Human-Rights and Legal Concerns
Human-rights organizations have urged that the two North Koreans be placed in South Korea rather than returned to the North, citing the risk of persecution or forced repatriation. They argue that the handling of the POWs must adhere to the Geneva Conventions and respect the individuals’ expressed desire to defect, as reported in South Korean media interviews.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Recently, we sent two North Korean prisoners of war to the Republic of Korea,” — Ukraine. Share Zelenskyy, president
- “These guys are not easy to capture alive,” — Ukraine. Share Zelenskyy, president
- “Kim Jong Un uses them like currency and gets something in return,” — Ukraine. Share Zelenskyy, president