Local Ukrainian Media Report Lee Geun's Participation in Combat

Introduction of Lee Geun with 'Militarni' and 'Bukbi'
Image revealed showing him with two presumed volunteer soldiers

On the 4th, an online community revealed a photo of YouTuber Lee Geun (left), who entered Ukraine, together with two individuals presumed to be international volunteer soldiers. Photo by Online Community

[Asia Economy Intern Reporter Kim Jung-wan] Captain Lee Geun, a former Navy Special Warfare Unit (UDT·SEAL) officer and YouTuber, was spotted with individuals presumed to be local Ukrainian volunteer soldiers. Ukrainian local media outlets have been reporting that Lee has joined the International Legion to participate in Ukraine's frontlines against Russia.

The specialized media 'Militarni,' operated by the NGO 'Ukraine Military Center,' reported on the 3rd that Lee arrived in Ukraine and joined the war despite the South Korean government's prohibition.

Quoting Lee's Instagram, the media stated, "Lee is participating in offensive operations as part of a special operations unit formed with colleagues from the United States and the United Kingdom."

Photo by Military, a Ukrainian military media outlet, homepage capture

The media introduced Lee as a former Navy special forces member from South Korea and a well-known video blogger active on YouTube, reporting that "This former captain is convinced that just as the world helped Korea during the Korean War, Korea should help Ukraine."

On the 2nd, the online media 'Bookby' also reported Lee's participation in the war through his Instagram account. The outlet highlighted his background as a South Korean special forces officer who took part in military operations against Somali pirates in African waters during his active service.

Photo by Bookbee official Instagram account capture

They also shared Lee's recent Instagram post from the 30th of last month, stating, "I gathered foreign agents from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries to form a special operations team."

Previously, Lee had said, "After arriving at the Ukraine International Legion and signing a contract, I gathered foreign agents with real combat experience from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries to form a special operations team and carried out several confidential missions. We have received full support and backing from the Ukrainian military and people, and the Ukrainian people express deep gratitude for the contributions of the International Legion with one heart."