[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Jung-wan] Former Navy Special Warfare Command (UDT/SEAL) Captain Lee Geun has revealed belatedly that he formed a team and departed for Ukraine to join the Ukrainian volunteer forces.
On the 6th, Captain Lee posted on Instagram and the YouTube channel 'ROKSEAL', "When the President of Ukraine called for help from around the world, 'ROKSEAL' immediately prepared for the volunteer mission. On February 28, we posted the article through the YouTube community and announced a hint saying 'WE WILL SUPPORT UKRAINE.' We planned, coordinated, and prepared equipment within 48 hours. Initially, we tried to depart through official procedures, but we encountered friction due to strong opposition from the Korean government," he stated.
He continued, "We were threatened that if we entered a travel-restricted country, we would be treated as criminals and could face one year imprisonment or a fine of 10 million won. However, even if punished, we could not just stand by without helping Ukraine using our skills, knowledge, and expertise," he said.
He added, "Ignorant people may not understand security, but in this situation, to ensure my team could depart and arrive safely in Ukraine through unofficial procedures, we did not share our plans with anyone except a few related personnel," he explained.
He said, "Since we recently departed, I am now making this announcement. I personally selected my team members, and if I return alive, I will take full responsibility and accept any punishment. As the first Korean volunteer soldier, I will represent our country and elevate its prestige. Then, I will see you in Korea after the mission," he added.
Earlier, on the 26th of last month, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky appealed for volunteer participation overseas, leading to a surge of volunteer support worldwide to help Ukraine. Our country has also received related inquiries through the Embassy in Korea.
The Embassy of Ukraine in Korea stated on the 3rd, "When hopeful candidates contact the embassy, we first check their eligibility for enlistment, and if they meet certain qualifications, we guide them through the enlistment procedures." However, the embassy added, "Since this is a voluntary action taken in a personal capacity, individuals bear full responsibility."
Meanwhile, the government issued a Level 4 travel advisory (black alert), meaning 'travel ban,' for the entire territory of Ukraine on the 13th of last month. Accordingly, Korean nationals cannot visit Ukraine unless they receive 'exceptional passport use' permission from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Violating this and visiting or staying in Ukraine may result in imprisonment of up to one year or a fine of up to 10 million won under the Passport Act.
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