**Title: South Korea Criticizes Zelensky Over POW Disclosure Breach**
In a recent development, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has publicly criticized Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky for allegedly prioritizing personal interests over diplomatic agreements. This criticism stems from Zelensky's announcement at the United Nations General Assembly regarding the transfer of two North Korean prisoners of war (POWs) captured by Russia, which South Korea claims breached a prior agreement to keep the transfer confidential.
During his speech at the UN, Zelensky highlighted the challenges in capturing the two North Korean soldiers alive, emphasizing the military support North Korea has provided to Russia in the ongoing conflict. Reports indicate that North Korean troops were deployed to assist Russia in countering a Ukrainian incursion into Russia's Kursk Region during the years 2024-2025.
In response to Zelensky's remarks, President Lee took to social media platform X, where he expressed his disapproval without directly naming the Ukrainian leader. He argued that leaders should prioritize national interests rather than seeking personal gain or popularity. Lee described Zelensky's actions as demonstrating a “callous and irresponsible attitude [that is] simply unacceptable,” underscoring the sensitivity of the agreement between Seoul and Kyiv.
The transfer of the two North Korean soldiers to South Korea reportedly occurred earlier this week. South Korean opposition lawmaker Yoo Yong-won, who has been an advocate for the transfer since his meeting with the POWs in Ukraine last year, criticized the Lee administration for its handling of the situation. He accused the government of attempting to keep the agreement with Zelensky under wraps and suggested that a more proactive approach should have been taken.
Yoo revealed that the deal for the transfer was reached in June, and he clarified that the delivery of the POWs was not contingent upon South Korea altering its policy of not sending military aid to Ukraine. This policy is rooted in South Korea's stance on North Korea, as the country does not formally recognize the Pyongyang government and considers all Koreans as citizens of a single nation, irrespective of their birthplace on the peninsula.
The two soldiers, who were reportedly captured in January 2025, have expressed a desire to be sent to South Korea. This situation highlights the complex dynamics surrounding the ongoing conflict involving Russia, Ukraine, and North Korea, as well as the diplomatic challenges faced by South Korea in navigating its relationships with both Ukraine and North Korea.
As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this incident will impact South Korea's diplomatic relations with Ukraine and its stance on military support amid the ongoing conflict.