Seoul: A North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces has expressed a desire to relocate to South Korea, according to a South Korean lawmaker. The soldier, identified by the surname Ri, conveyed his wishes during a 70-minute conversation with Rep. Yu Yong-weon. The meeting took place during Yu's visit to Ukraine from February 23-26. Ri inquired about the possibility of living freely and enjoying rights in Seoul, additionally seeking reassurance about receiving medical treatment.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Rep. Yu shared these details in a press conference at the National Assembly, where he also played an audio recording of his conversation with Ri and another captured soldier, Paek. Both soldiers were captured by Ukrainian forces during combat in Russia's Kursk region in January. Ri, who suffered severe injuries to his jaw and arm, asked if he could reunite with his parents and start a new life in South Korea.
Ri also reiterated his desire to move to South Korea in an interview with the South Korean newspaper Chosun Ilbo. The South Korean government has announced its willingness to offer protection and support if Ri formally requests to relocate to Seoul.
The second soldier, Paek, stated that he needed more time to consider his options regarding defection. He mentioned the common belief among North Korean soldiers that being captured is a betrayal, revealing that he carried a grenade for self-destruction when injured. Yu stressed the importance of diplomatic efforts to ensure that captured North Korean soldiers are not forcibly returned to their home country.