As tensions rise between South Korea and Ukraine over the recent revelation of the repatriation of North Korean soldiers, a former Ukrainian military commander has publicly criticized President Lee Jae-myung.
On October 2, Bohdan Krotevych, a retired colonel and former chief of staff of Ukraine's Azov Brigade, posted on X (formerly Twitter) stating, "The South Korean president is not in a position to threaten anyone, especially the president of Ukraine."
Krotevych added, "I want to remind South Koreans that the term 'martial law' evokes greater fear than the actual military actions or provocations from North Korea."
He continued, "I do not mean to offend, but the South Korean president should carefully consider who he is speaking about and the content of his statements. If South Korea were to be attacked, there may come a day when Ukraine proves to be one of South Korea's few true allies."
Krotevych emphasized, "As today's reality clearly shows, what is most important in a crisis is not an alliance that exists only on paper, but having a true ally by your side."
His comments came amid ongoing disputes between South Korea and Ukraine regarding the disclosure of the repatriation of two North Korean soldiers.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed during a speech at the United Nations General Assembly last month that two North Korean soldiers captured by Ukrainian forces had been sent back to South Korea.
The South Korean government stated that it had agreed with Ukraine to handle matters related to the North Korean soldiers and their families confidentially, considering their safety and the diplomatic and security implications. However, Ukraine has indicated that there was no agreement to keep the repatriation itself confidential, leading to a back-and-forth between the two nations.
President Lee criticized Ukraine on October 2 via X, stating, "The Ukrainian side requested confidentiality regarding the repatriation of North Korean soldiers, but they unilaterally disclosed it. I expressed my disappointment as the president of the Republic of Korea, and they made the head of state of the counterpart a liar by claiming there was no agreement."
He warned, "If they continue to refuse to acknowledge the facts and publicly apologize, we will take further action, as this is a matter concerning the dignity of the people and the nation of South Korea."
As a result, the recall of South Korea's Ambassador to Ukraine, Park Ki-chang, is reportedly being considered as one of the potential measures.
Krotevych gained recognition for his role in the defense of the Azovstal steel plant in Mariupol during Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. He joined the Azov unit in 2014, following Russia's annexation of Crimea. After being captured while continuing to fight in Mariupol, he returned to Ukraine through a prisoner exchange. Since stepping down as chief of staff of the Azov Brigade in February 2022, he has continued to engage in public activities as a military expert.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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