Ukraine refuses South Korea's call for apology over North Korean POW handover

In a press briefing, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha declared the matter of two North Korean prisoners of war sent to South Korea as closed, signaling a de-facto refusal to apologise for Ukraine’s public disclosure. He explained that the dispute stemmed from divergent interpretations of confidentiality clauses during the handover and asserted that Ukraine fulfilled every duty, calling the transfer a goodwill act.

Sybiha also highlighted Ukraine’s adherence to the Geneva Conventions and respect for South Korean constitutional provisions that regard the individuals as citizens. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung responded on X, accusing Kyiv of turning a foreign head of state into a liar and pledging additional measures unless an apology is made. Seoul has withdrawn its envoy, Ambassador Park Ki-chang, and indicated that his return depends on a formal apology. The episode underscores lingering diplomatic friction despite both sides expressing optimism about future relations.