South Korean Lawmaker Reveals North Korean POW’s Desire for a Normal Life
A South Korean lawmaker revealed that a North Korean soldier, captured by Ukraine, wishes to lead a “normal life” in South Korea. The constitution recognizes all Koreans as citizens, including defectors. Returning the soldiers to North Korea is deemed a “death sentence.” The discussion emphasizes the humanitarian aspects of war and the complexities surrounding North Korean defectors.
A South Korean lawmaker, Yu Yong-weon, announced on Tuesday that a North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces expressed a desire to live a “normal life” in South Korea. This revelation follows South Korea’s pledge to grant citizenship to North Korean troops who have defected or been captured. The National Intelligence Service of South Korea had previously confirmed that among approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers sent by Kim Jong Un to support Russia, two had been captured by Ukraine.
Yu recounted his emotional encounter with the captured soldiers who are currently held in an undisclosed Ukrainian detention facility. One soldier shared with him his hope of moving to South Korea to reunite with his parents. Additionally, he inquired whether he would have the opportunity to “live as he wish with the rights I hope for” and if he could have a home and establish a family in South Korea.
Under the South Korean constitution, all Koreans, regardless of their current residence, are regarded as citizens. Accordingly, officials have reiterated that this principle would apply to any North Korean troops captured in Ukraine. Yu further emphasized that returning these soldiers to North Korea would equate to a “death sentence,” as North Korean military directives have instructed troops to commit suicide rather than allow themselves to be captured.
Reports from South Korean intelligence indicate that North Korean soldiers often face dire consequences, including suicide, during capture attempts. Yu added that even as prisoners of war, these soldiers must be recognized as citizens of South Korea and should be afforded the necessary protections. In a related case from 2019, two North Korean men were expelled from South Korea after being implicated in the murder of their shipmates, highlighting the complexities surrounding the treatment of defectors and POWs.
In conclusion, the situation concerning North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine highlights significant humanitarian concerns and the complexities of international relations. The South Korean lawmaker’s interaction with the POWs sheds light on their desire for a better life, while underlining South Korea’s constitutional stance regarding citizenship. This development raises critical questions about the treatment of North Korean defectors and the implications of returning captured soldiers to their home country.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
