The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on October 12 that it has summoned Ambassador to Ukraine Park Ki-chang in response to the controversy surrounding the alleged breach of a confidential agreement regarding the repatriation of North Korean prisoners of war. The ministry stated that the timing of the ambassador's departure has not yet been determined.
A ministry official told reporters, "It is undecided when Ambassador Park will return to Ukraine." He added, "The government will make efforts to manage and resolve issues with Ukraine."
The official emphasized, "We hope that Ukraine will respond positively to our diplomatic efforts through consultations related to Ambassador Park," and expressed hope for an apology from Ukraine that the public can accept. Earlier, Foreign Minister Park Jin mentioned during a National Assembly audit on October 6 that he received an apology message from the Ukrainian foreign minister, but noted, "It differs somewhat from our expectations, so we intend to take firm action."
Meanwhile, the government announced the summoning of Ambassador Park to the media on October 8, indicating the seriousness with which it views the matter. This action marks the first time in 18 years that South Korea has summoned its ambassador in response to diplomatic protests, following Japan's territorial claims over Dokdo in 2008.
Ambassador Park returned to South Korea on the morning of October 10 and is currently staying in the country.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.