South Korean President Lee, Ukraine's Zelenskyy meet to discuss reconstruction and POWs

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for their first summit in Ankara, Turkey, on the sidelines of the NATO summit. The leaders discussed Ukraine's post-war reconstruction and the sensitive issue of North Korean prisoners of war.

President Lee affirmed South Korea's commitment to ongoing humanitarian assistance and participation in international efforts for Ukraine's recovery. "Our government will continue to provide the humanitarian support that the Ukrainian people need and will continue to participate in the international community's efforts for Ukraine's recovery and reconstruction," Lee stated, according to Senior Presidential Secretary for Public Relations Kang Yu-jeong.

This commitment follows Lee's earlier pledge of $100 million (approximately 150 billion won) for Ukraine's reconstruction during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. A senior presidential official clarified that the support would exclude lethal weapons but cover other areas.

President Zelenskyy conveyed his gratitude for South Korea's support and expressed his hope for continued close cooperation with Seoul in ending the war and achieving peace and recovery for Ukraine. He also welcomed the potential involvement of South Korean companies in the reconstruction process.

A significant point of discussion was the issue of North Korean prisoners of war captured in Ukraine. Both leaders agreed to resolve the matter in accordance with international law and humanitarian principles, respecting the free will of the individuals involved. Reports indicate that two North Korean soldiers, previously deployed with Russian forces, were captured by Ukrainian forces and have expressed a desire to go to South Korea. The South Korean government has stated its willingness to accept all North Korean defectors who wish to come to South Korea.