Seoul:South Korea has announced the withdrawal of certain diplomatic staff from Ukraine due to ongoing diplomatic tensions and security threats. This decision was made amidst a dispute involving the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) to Seoul and ongoing threats of airstrikes in Ukraine, as reported by the South Korean foreign ministry on Tuesday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision follows Ukraine's lack of "positive steps" to address the diplomatic row stemming from the unilateral disclosure of the POWs' transfer. Ministry spokesperson Park Doo-soon highlighted the continued Russian airstrikes as a significant concern affecting the safety of diplomatic personnel.
Despite the withdrawal, South Korea will maintain diplomatic communication through its charge d'affaires, while consular staff will continue their operations to protect South Korean nationals in Ukraine. Seoul has demanded a formal apology and assurances from Ukraine following the disclosure by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which contradicted an alleged agreement to keep the matter confidential.
South Korea previously recalled its ambassador, Park Ki-chang, in protest of Ukraine's actions. The recall was part of efforts to prompt a formal response from Kyiv, which has yet to materialize. South Korea remains committed to seeking a resolution through dialogue, despite the challenges.
The two North Korean soldiers were captured while fighting for Russia in early 2025 and arrived in South Korea in September. The South Korean Embassy in Ukraine continues to provide safety updates and assistance for South Koreans wishing to evacuate, as approximately half of the diplomatic staff are set to leave Ukraine.
A Level 4 travel advisory remains in effect across Ukraine due to increased threats of missile and drone attacks. Recent Russian attacks have severely impacted Ukraine's energy infrastructure, leaving many households without power.
Source Yonhap News Agency