South Korea Demands Apology From Ukraine Over North Korean POW Transfer Disclosure
South Korea’s government is seeking an explanation and an apology from Ukraine following the public announcement of the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war. Seong Ghi-hong, a senior official in public relations, expressed regret over Ukraine’s breach of a supposed confidentiality agreement. He noted that discussions regarding the transfer included requests for discretion to prevent domestic unrest, particularly over the potential prisoner exchange involving Ukrainian detainees. South Korea asserts that comments made by President Volodymyr Zelensky at the United Nations have eroded trust between the nations, prompting Seoul to consider additional responses.
Key facts
- South Korea's presidential office demanded an official explanation and apology from Ukraine.
- Seoul accused Kyiv of disclosing the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea.
- Seoul said Ukraine falsely denied that the two sides had agreed to keep the move confidential.
- Seong Ghi-hong, senior presidential secretary for public relations, released the statement on Sunday.
- Seong said Ukraine repeatedly discussed the transfer with Seoul and requested secrecy.
- Ukraine argued disclosure could trigger domestic criticism over losing a chance to exchange the soldiers for Ukrainian prisoners.
- Seoul said Zelensky's UN revelation damaged trust between the two governments.
- The government is reviewing additional measures on the issue if necessary.
Entities
Artists
- Volodymyr Zelensky
- Seong Ghi-hong
Institutions
- South Korea presidential office
- United Nations
Locations
- South Korea
- Ukraine
- Seoul
- Kyiv
- North Korea
- Russia