Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to handling North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) in accordance with international humanitarian law following talks with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun in Seoul.
Speaking after their bilateral meeting and luncheon on June 30, Sybiha said the two sides held detailed discussions on the issue of North Korean POWs and agreed on how to proceed under international legal standards. The remarks suggest Ukraine intends to uphold the principle of non-refoulement, which prohibits the forced return of individuals to countries where they could face torture, persecution, or execution against their will.
In a post on X, Sybiha said the ministers also discussed the growing military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, describing it as a shared security challenge.
He noted that the meeting reaffirmed the strengthening partnership between Ukraine and South Korea, with discussions focusing on expanding high-level political dialogue, economic and industrial cooperation, and security collaboration. Sybiha also highlighted opportunities for South Korean companies to participate in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction.
The Ukrainian minister briefed Cho on the current battlefield situation, Ukraine’s peace efforts, and recent developments in the country’s defence industry.
Sybiha thanked South Korea for its continued support of Ukraine and emphasized the wider global implications of Russia’s invasion, including North Korea’s involvement in the conflict and the assistance Russia is believed to be providing to Pyongyang in return.
