Politics · Singapore Bureau
Seoul denies military aid pledge in North Korean soldiers exchange
South Korea has rejected claims it promised military support to Ukraine in connection with the transfer of two captured North Korean soldiers, according to a lawmaker citing intelligence agency findings.
LSN Singapore ·
SEOUL — South Korea made no commitment to provide military assistance to Ukraine in relation to the handover of two North Korean soldiers, a South Korean lawmaker said on Wednesday, citing briefings from the country's intelligence agency.
The clarification came amid international scrutiny over Seoul's involvement in the Ukraine conflict and reports suggesting possible quid pro quo arrangements between South Korea and Ukraine regarding military support.
The two North Korean soldiers were captured by Ukrainian forces during combat operations in eastern Ukraine. The circumstances surrounding their subsequent transfer and any diplomatic negotiations have drawn attention from regional and international observers monitoring North Korea's reported military involvement in the conflict.
South Korea has maintained a cautious stance on direct military aid to Ukraine, citing its geopolitical position and historical tensions with North Korea. Seoul has previously indicated it would review its military support policies should there be evidence of deeper North Korean involvement in Russia's war effort.