Lee Jae Myung says "appropriate in every aspect" about transfer of North Korean soldiers

South Korea’s presidential office has asked Ukraine for an explanation and apology after Kyiv publicly revealed that two North Korean soldiers captured while fighting for Russia were transferred to Seoul, despite earlier talks that the move would stay confidential. Seoul said the secrecy was meant to safeguard security, diplomatic and humanitarian concerns, including the safety of the prisoners and their relatives, and noted that Ukraine later denied any confidentiality pact, which the South Korean side says has harmed bilateral trust. President Lee Jae Myung said keeping the transfer hidden was justified in every respect and expressed regret over the breach. The two captives were seized in Russia’s Kursk region in January 2025, and the episode comes as Seoul pursues renewed dialogue with North Korea.