South Korea reduces diplomatic presence in Ukraine over prisoner of war dispute

South Korea has decided to withdraw some of its embassy staff from Ukraine amid a diplomatic conflict with Kyiv. The reason was the public disclosure of information about the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea reported this on October 20.

Why is Seoul withdrawing diplomats

According to the South Korean side, the decision to reduce diplomatic staff was made due to the lack of progress in resolving the dispute with Ukraine.

Seoul claims that Kyiv has not yet taken the necessary steps to resolve the conflict that arose after the publication of information about the transfer of two prisoners of war from the DPRK.

Earlier, South Korea has already recalled its ambassador to Ukraine, Park Ki-chan.

At the same time, there are no plans to completely terminate diplomatic relations. The chargé d’affaires will maintain necessary contacts with the Ukrainian side, and consular employees will continue to perform their duties.

What caused the diplomatic conflict

In January 2025, Ukrainian military captured two North Korean citizens who participated in hostilities on the side of Russia in the Kursk region.

According to South Korean sources, in September 2026, the prisoners of war were transferred to the Republic of Korea.

Tensions in relations between the states arose after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly announced their transfer.

The South Korean side expressed dissatisfaction with the disclosure of this information and demanded official explanations and apologies from Ukraine.

In addition, Seoul expects a statement from the Office of the President of Ukraine, which would deny the existence of agreements on the confidentiality of the transfer of prisoners of war.

Will the situation affect relations between Ukraine and South Korea

Despite the diplomatic escalation, South Korea does not declare its intention to completely stop cooperation with Ukraine.

An additional factor in the reduction of embassy staff is the security situation, in particular the constant threat of Russian air attacks.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine previously emphasized its readiness for a constructive dialogue with Seoul and the search for a diplomatic solution.