Two North Korean soldiers, captured by Ukrainian forces on Jan. 9, were recently interviewed by this newspaper at a prisoner of war camp in Ukraine. This marks the first media interview with Russian-deployed North Korean soldiers. Rifleman Baek, 21 (left), served for 10 years in the North Korean military, while scout-sniper Ri, 26, served for 4 years before being deployed to Russia's Kursk in October-November of last year. /Chosun DB

The South Korean government has announced that it will provide the necessary protection and support to all North Korean soldiers captured by the Ukrainian military, in accordance with the fundamental principle and related laws that guarantee their acceptance if they request to move to S. Korea.

A S. Korean foreign ministry official said on Feb. 19 that North Korean soldiers are considered S. Korean citizens under the constitution. The official emphasized that respecting an individual’s free will in prisoner repatriation aligns with international law and practices. The government also noted that no one should be sent back to a place where they might face the threat of persecution against their will.

The official added, “S. Korea has already conveyed its position to Ukraine and will continue necessary discussions.”

South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Lee Jae-woong holds a regular briefing on current issues at the ministry in Jongno-gu, Seoul, on Feb. 13. /Newsis

In an interview published on the same day, Ri, a North Korean soldier captured by the Ukrainian forces, revealed his intent to defect, stating, “I plan to apply for asylum and go to S. Korea.”