South Korea Confirms Ukraine Will Not Repatriate North Korean Soldiers Fighting with Russia

Ukraine has assured South Korea that two North Korean soldiers captured while fighting alongside Russian forces will not be repatriated to Moscow, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun stated on Friday, March 6, 2026. This confirmation addresses concerns raised about the potential return of the soldiers to either Russia or North Korea.

Background of the Captured Soldiers

The two North Korean soldiers were captured by Ukrainian forces during combat in the Kursk region of Russia in January of last year. Reports surfaced earlier this month that Russia had included them on a list of prisoners of war demanded in exchange negotiations [UPI].

Assurances from Ukraine

Minister Cho Hyun stated he received direct assurance from his Ukrainian counterpart that the soldiers would not be repatriated. A subsequent meeting between high-ranking representatives from both countries reaffirmed this position [Financial News]. The Minister indicated that further details regarding the situation cannot be disclosed to avoid jeopardizing the safety of the individuals involved.

South Korea’s Efforts

The South Korean Foreign Ministry is actively working to ensure the safety of the soldiers and facilitate their return to South Korea, in accordance with the country’s constitution [UPI]. The soldiers themselves have reportedly expressed a desire to come to South Korea rather than be sent back to North Korea.

Patriot Missile System Discussions

During the same parliamentary session, Minister Cho Hyun addressed questions regarding the potential redeployment of U.S. Patriot missile defense systems stationed in South Korea to the Middle East. He stated that he had not received any direct request for military support from the United States, but acknowledged discussions were ongoing between U.S. And South Korean military authorities [UPI]. The U.S. Department of Defense has declined to comment on specific movements of military assets for operational security reasons, but emphasized its commitment to maintaining combat readiness on the Korean Peninsula.

Minister Cho Hyun’s Background

Cho Hyun has served as the 42nd Minister of Foreign Affairs of South Korea since July 19, 2025 [Wikipedia]. Prior to this role, he served as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations from 2019 to 2022 and as the First Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2018 to 2019.