South Korean and Ukrainian foreign ministers meet in Paris

South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha met in Paris on November 10, on the sidelines of the G7 foreign ministers meeting. The meeting marks the first high-level diplomatic encounter since South Korea recalled its ambassador to Ukraine and withdrew half of its diplomatic staff following a dispute over North Korean prisoners of war.

The tension arose after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that two North Korean soldiers captured during the Russia-Ukraine war were sent to South Korea, which South Korea viewed as a breach of a confidential agreement. During the talks, Minister Cho emphasized that mutual respect, trust, and the faithful implementation of agreements are essential prerequisites for bilateral relations.

Minister Sybiha expressed a desire to continue diplomatic efforts to manage and develop the relationship stably. He thanked South Korea for its support and noted that the two sides had a productive conversation regarding recent incidents. Cho reaffirmed South Korea's commitment to humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts for Ukraine.