Key facts
- Ukraine is working to resolve a dispute with South Korea over the public announcement of a North Korean POW transfer.
- Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called the situation a "diplomatic misunderstanding".
- South Korea demanded an explanation and apology from Ukraine for the disclosure.
- Ukraine captured the two North Koreans in January 2025.
- North Korea has signed a strategic partnership agreement with Russia, including a mutual defense pact.
Ukraine is seeking to mend relations with South Korea following a diplomatic dispute over Kyiv's public announcement of the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war captured during the conflict with Russia. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha described the situation as a "diplomatic misunderstanding" and expressed optimism for a swift resolution, emphasizing the importance of South Korea to Ukraine.