Zelensky's Disclosure of North Korean POW Transfer Sparks Controversy

South Korea's intelligence agency has raised suspicions that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky may have intentionally disclosed the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) to enhance public support in South Korea for providing military assistance to Ukraine. This assertion was made by a lawmaker on September 30.

Zelensky revealed last week that Ukraine had sent two North Korean soldiers to South Korea, stating that capturing them alive was a challenging task. Following his comments at the United Nations, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed significant concern, emphasizing that confidentiality was crucial to protect the relatives of the POWs from potential repercussions in North Korea.

In response to the situation, South Korea summoned Ukraine's ambassador on September 28 to convey its serious concerns regarding the disclosure. Lawmaker Yoo Yeong-ha indicated that the intelligence agency believes Zelensky may have disclosed the transfer to generate public backing in Seoul for military support to Ukraine.

Another lawmaker, Youn Kun-young, confirmed that the two POWs arrived in South Korea from Ukraine in mid-September and were reported to be in generally good health. Their willingness to relocate to South Korea was verified multiple times, according to the intelligence agency.

Confidentiality Agreement on POW Transfer

Earlier this week, South Korea's foreign ministry stated that due to the personal safety of the individuals involved and their families, both nations had agreed to handle the matter confidentially. However, Yoo clarified that there was no formal agreement between the South Korean and Ukrainian leaders to maintain confidentiality, although diplomatic officials had agreed to it during their discussions.

Approved for Dissemination

The Ukrainian side had initially requested strict confidentiality, citing concerns about the potential impact on future prisoner exchanges with Russia. The two North Korean soldiers were captured by Ukraine early last year while fighting alongside Russian forces. One of the soldiers had previously shared with South Korean media that he was conscripted at the age of 17 and served in a reconnaissance unit.

The controversy surrounding this disclosure could complicate Ukraine's requests for arms supplies from South Korea. To date, South Korea has refrained from providing lethal weapons to Ukraine, adhering to a domestic policy that prohibits military aid to countries engaged in conflict. Nevertheless, discussions regarding the provision of defensive weapons have been ongoing, especially in light of North Korea's military support for Russia.