The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated on October 8 that refined petroleum products such as diesel and aviation fuel are not included in its export controls against Russia, emphasizing its commitment to international peacekeeping efforts through these sanctions.
The ministry clarified that its export controls primarily target strategically significant items, including industrial machinery, electronics, and vehicles. It noted that the decision on export control items is made after comprehensive reviews considering potential military use, economic impact, and international cooperation.
Furthermore, the government highlighted that it strictly prohibits the export of strategic goods under the Foreign Trade Act and has designated 1,402 items that could potentially be used for military purposes as subject to situational approval.
Notably, South Korea's exports to Russia have significantly decreased from $10 billion in 2021 to $4 billion last year. The government stated that despite the economic burden on citizens and businesses, it remains committed to contributing to international peace through these export controls.
The ministry also stated that there is no confirmed evidence regarding the export of South Korean fuel, such as diesel, and cautioned against assuming false reporting based solely on the fact that vessels did not go directly to their declared final destination. It plans to further investigate the actual shipping routes and any discrepancies in the declared destination to determine potential violations of domestic law.
Additionally, the government is verifying reports from foreign media regarding shipping cases. If any violations of South Korean laws are confirmed, appropriate actions will be taken in accordance with the law. Blue House spokesperson Kang Yu-jeong expressed regret towards Ukraine, urging them to refrain from publicly distorting South Korea's policies or undermining international trust without sufficient verification.
Meanwhile, on October 6, Vladyslav Blasiuk, an advisor on sanctions in the Ukrainian presidential office, posted on Facebook shortly after a report by The Guardian, stating that South Korea's actions regarding sanctions against Russia are contradictory and ultimately assist Russia in offsetting the impacts of its loss of refining capacity. The Guardian reported that seven oil tankers transported over 176,000 tons of petroleum products from various South Korean ports, including Ulsan and Yeosu, to Russia's Far East during July and August of this year.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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