Minister of Unification Kim Young-ho met with Dmytro Ponomarenko, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Korea, and requested cooperation in the repatriation of North Korean military prisoners of war. Ambassador Ponomarenko stated that he would consult with the international community, including Korea.
Dmytro Ponomarenko, Ambassador of Ukraine to Korea (left), and Kim Young-ho, Minister of Unification. Provided by the Ministry of Unification.
On the 21st, the Ministry of Unification announced that Minister Kim met with Ambassador Ponomarenko at the Government Seoul Office in Jongno-gu, Seoul, to discuss the issue of repatriating North Korean military prisoners of war and the international situation.
Minister Kim expressed condolences to Ambassador Ponomarenko regarding the situation Ukraine is facing and the suffering of its people. He then explained the government's basic principle that, constitutionally, they are citizens of the Republic of Korea and that if they wish to go to Korea, all will be accepted. Furthermore, he conveyed the government's position that necessary protection and support will be provided according to relevant laws and regulations, and requested the cooperation of the Ukrainian government.
In response, Ambassador Ponomarenko explained to Minister Kim that Ukraine complies with international laws such as the Geneva Conventions and will consult with the international community, including Korea. He also expressed gratitude for the support of the Korean government and people regarding the situation in Ukraine.
Both sides agreed that Korea and Ukraine are important cooperative partners and decided to continue communication and cooperation.
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