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September 24, 2026

Ukraine transfers two North Korean POWs to South Korea live: Zelensky confirms move

World Live coverage ended 2 updates Concluded 14:59
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What we know

Last verified 08:57
  • Ukraine has transferred two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea, confirmed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
  • Multiple sources, including The New York Times, have reported on the transfer of the prisoners.
  • Details about the capture and transfer of the prisoners have not been fully disclosed.
  • South Korean authorities have not yet made a public comment on the arrival or status of the transferred individuals.
  • International observers involved in the conflict are closely monitoring the situation.

Live updates

Publication times are shown in US Eastern Time and UTC. Event times are stated in the update text when confirmed.

Quote

Ukraine Transfers Two North Korean POWs to South Korea

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine has handed over two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea. Zelenskyy condemned North Korea for treating its citizens as 'currency' to support Russia's military efforts in Ukraine. This transfer highlights the complex international dimensions of the conflict and North Korea's involvement, according to the Ukrainian president.

Ukraine Transfers Two North Korean POWs to South Korea, Zelensky Confirms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that Ukraine has sent two North Korean prisoners of war to South Korea. This development was reported by multiple sources, including The New York Times. The transfer marks a notable movement of detainees amid the ongoing conflict involving Ukraine and foreign combatants.

The details surrounding the capture and transfer of these prisoners have not been fully disclosed, and South Korean authorities have yet to comment publicly on the arrival or status of the individuals. The situation remains under close observation by international actors monitoring the conflict.

What we’ll be tracking

South Korean Response and Status Update TBD
International Monitoring of POW Treatment and Diplomatic Reactions TBD

Why it matters

International Relations

The transfer of North Korean POWs from Ukraine to South Korea underscores the conflict's complex international involvement, including North Korea's role supporting Russia.

Human Rights

President Zelenskyy's condemnation of North Korea using its citizens as 'currency' highlights concerns about the treatment and exploitation of foreign fighters in the war.

Conflict Dynamics

The movement of foreign prisoners of war reflects ongoing shifts and developments in the Ukraine conflict, involving multiple countries beyond the immediate battlefield.