Why North Korean Soldiers Captured by Ukrainian Forces Should Be Sent to South Korea

Kim Young-jae

North Korean Defector and University Student

The world is closely watching the fate of North Korean soldiers captured in Ukraine, with reports indicating they seek asylum in South Korea. Soldiers Paek and Ri have publicly stated in interviews their desire to defect to South Korea.

As a former North Korean soldier who defected, I stress that these captured soldiers should be sent to South Korea for humanitarian, legal, and security reasons. Their relocation ensures safety, aligns with international law, and supports regional stability.

Article 3 of South Korea’s Constitution states, "The territory of the Republic of Korea consists of the Korean Peninsula and its adjacent islands," legally defining North Korea as part of South Korea. This grants all North Koreans, including soldiers, South Korean nationality, obligating the government to protect their rights.

If sent back to North Korea, these soldiers would likely face severe punishment. The regime views defectors and captured troops as traitors, subjecting them to forced labor or even execution—serious human rights violations that the international community cannot ignore. South Korea is the safest and most viable option for their protection.

International organizations, including the UN and human rights groups, have long condemned North Korea’s oppressive policies. Allowing these captured soldiers to seek refuge in South Korea would reinforce global human rights principles and set a precedent for handling similar cases in future conflicts.

Additionally, these soldiers may possess valuable intelligence on North Korea’s military operations, training, and strategies. Granting them asylum in South Korea could provide crucial insights, strengthening national security.

Ukraine and South Korea also share strategic interests, particularly given Russia’s invasion and North Korea’s military support for Russia. Facilitating the transfer of these soldiers would enhance diplomatic ties between Ukraine and South Korea, opening doors for broader cooperation.

The case for bringing these captured soldiers to South Korea is clear—it is justified on humanitarian, legal, international, security, and diplomatic grounds. The South Korean government must actively negotiate with global partners to secure their safe transfer.

Recent statements from Ukrainian authorities suggest openness to transferring North Korean POWs to South Korea, raising hope for a resolution and underscoring the need for continued diplomatic efforts.