North Korean Soldier Captured in Ukraine Seeks Normal Life in South Korea
A South Korean lawmaker revealed that a North Korean soldier, captured in Ukraine, wishes to live a “normal life” in the South. Following South Korea’s offer of citizenship to captured North Korean troops, the soldier expressed hopes of reuniting with his parents and starting a family in South Korea. Lawmaker Yu Yong-weon emphasized the constitutional rights of these soldiers and the dire consequences of their potential return to North Korea.
On March 4, a South Korean lawmaker announced that a North Korean soldier captured by Ukrainian forces expressed a desire for a “normal life” in South Korea. This development follows South Korea’s commitment to provide citizenship to North Korean troops. The National Intelligence Service of South Korea revealed that Ukrainian military forces had apprehended two of approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers dispatched to assist Russia in the ongoing conflict against Ukraine.
Lawmaker Yu Yong-weon, who met the captured soldiers after obtaining permission from the Ukrainian authorities, described his emotional encounter with them, emphasizing his feelings of compassion and empathy. During their discussion, one soldier expressed a hope to relocated to South Korea in order to reunite with his parents, seeking reassurance about his potential life in South Korea, including his rights and family prospects.
According to South Korea’s Constitution, all Koreans, including those from the North, are considered citizens, confirming that this status extends to captured soldiers. Mr. Yu cautioned that sending these soldiers back to North Korea would be tantamount to delivering them a “death sentence,” citing intelligence reports that recommend North Korean troops commit suicide rather than face capture.
The lawmaker reflected on the horrific experiences relayed by the captured soldiers, which included witnessing their comrades’ suicides following injuries. He underscored that, even as prisoners of war, North Korean soldiers deserve constitutional recognition and protection as South Korean citizens.
This situation echoes a previous incident in 2019, wherein the South Korean government expelled two North Korean men implicated in the murder of 16 fellow crewmates after they sought refuge in South Korean waters. This action marked the first transfer of individuals from the South back to the North since the conclusion of the Korean War.
The remarks made by Lawmaker Yu Yong-weon highlight the plight of North Korean soldiers captured by Ukraine, reinforcing South Korea’s commitment to provide citizenship rights. The emotional testimonies reveal their longing for a life free from fear, amidst the dire consequences of their situation. Mr. Yu’s appeal for protection based on constitutional rights underscores the continuing complexities of inter-Korean relations and the humanitarian responsibilities involved.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
