On October 2, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung stated that “additional measures” might be taken against Ukraine if Kyiv does not acknowledge the confidentiality agreement regarding the transfer of two North Korean soldiers and does not apologize for the situation.
On social media platform X, Lee emphasized that if Ukraine continues to refuse to acknowledge the facts and publicly apologize, Seoul will be forced to take additional measures. He also expressed “deep regret” over Ukrainian statements regarding a possible military clash between North Korea and South Korea, considering them incitement to war.
Diplomatic tensions between Seoul and Kyiv arose after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced at the UN General Assembly the handover of two North Korean prisoners of war who had fought on Russia’s side. South Korea accused Ukraine of violating a non-disclosure agreement, while the Ukrainian side denied the existence of such an agreement.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sibiga emphasized the importance of building relations with South Korea. South Korean media reported on discussions between the foreign ministers of both countries, particularly regarding Seoul’s expected response and Kyiv’s possible next steps amid the ongoing war with Russia.
The situation is becoming more complicated for the Lee administration, which is seeking to ease tensions in its relations with North Korea. Experts believe that the “additional measures” in question may relate to the support South Korea is providing to Ukraine, including humanitarian and financial aid.
