South Korea to Withdraw Embassy Staff from Ukraine in Further Protest Move

[Financial News] The Ministry of Foreign Affairs decided on the 20th to withdraw personnel from the South Korean Embassy in Ukraine in protest over Ukraine’s breach of an agreement to keep the repatriation of two North Korean soldiers confidential. The move is an additional protest measure by the government, following the return to South Korea on the 10th of Park Gi-chang, South Korea’s ambassador to Ukraine.
A Foreign Ministry official did not hide that the move was a protest measure, saying, “We have already conveyed our government’s position to Ukraine through various channels, but judged that there had been no constructive action, so we decided to take this measure.”
The Foreign Ministry said it had also taken into account the persistent threat of airstrikes across Ukraine and the resulting difficulty of ensuring safety. However, all consular staff will remain in the country and continue to do their utmost to protect South Korean nationals abroad.
It added, “We are basically seeking a solution through amicable consultations between the two countries,” but said, “We hope Ukraine will take sincere and constructive action, and that we can then move on to discussions aimed at developing bilateral relations.”
The ambassador to Ukraine who returned to South Korea is expected to remain in the country for the time being. Meanwhile, Acting Ambassador Yun Ji-wan and essential staff will remain in Ukraine to protect South Korean nationals staying there.
A Foreign Ministry official said, “The South Korean Embassy in Ukraine will continue to maintain contact with South Korean nationals there, regularly issue safety advisories, conduct daily safety checks, and provide necessary assistance to those wishing to evacuate, among other ongoing safety measures.”
[email protected] Kim Gyeong-su Reporter