Seoul to reduce Ukraine embassy staff over POW dispute

Seoul said it would reduce its diplomatic presence in Kyiv following what it characterized as a lack of "constructive response" from Ukraine's government on the sensitive matter of North Korean captives, according to an announcement on Tuesday.

The move represents an escalation in tensions between the two countries over the handling of North Korean personnel allegedly captured or detained in Ukrainian territory. South Korea has expressed concern about the fate and treatment of these individuals, viewing the issue as significant to its regional security interests.

The Foreign Ministry did not specify how many staff members would be withdrawn or provide a timeline for the reduction. The decision underscores growing diplomatic friction between Seoul and Kyiv over how Ukraine has addressed South Korean requests for information and cooperation regarding North Korean military personnel in the country.

The withdrawal of embassy staff typically signals serious diplomatic displeasure and can impact bilateral relations across multiple sectors, including trade, defense cooperation, and humanitarian assistance. South Korea has been a significant supporter of Ukraine since Russia's 2022 invasion, though the nations have occasionally disagreed on regional security matters affecting Seoul's interests.