By John Q. Hosedrinker 
South Korea’s Foreign Ministry announced that it considers North Korean prisoners of war captured in Ukraine to be South Korean citizens, a stance communicated to Ukrainian officials. The ministry cited the sensitive nature of the situation and the prisoners’ safety when declining to offer specific details. Furthermore, the ministry requested media outlets protect the prisoners’ identities and avoid exposing them to public attention, emphasizing their right to humane treatment under international law. This request followed media reports, including interviews that showed the faces of the POWs, where they expressed desire to seek refuge in South Korea.
Read the original article here
S. Korea says North Korean POWs in Ukraine are its citizens. The core of this declaration lies in South Korea’s unique constitutional perspective. Legally, South Korea views the entire Korean peninsula as one nation, and as such, considers all North Koreans to be its citizens. This isn’t a new development; it’s a fundamental aspect of their national identity that has persisted since the Korean War.
This stance has significant implications, especially concerning North Korean POWs in Ukraine. Should these individuals be identified as North Korean citizens, South Korea would be obligated to recognize them as their own, offering them the same rights and protections afforded to all South Korean citizens. The practicalities of this are, of course, complex, particularly given the current geopolitical landscape and the strained relations between the two Koreas.
For any North Korean who manages to reach South Korea, or even a South Korean embassy abroad, the path to citizenship is open. The process typically involves an interrogation phase, a necessary step for the government to verify the individual’s identity and background. This is a standard procedure intended to prevent espionage and to ensure the safety and security of the nation. It’s also an opportunity for intelligence gathering, providing valuable insights into the inner workings of North Korea, although it’s important to remember this process is primarily for verifying identity, not a way to trade their freedom for intel.
Beyond citizenship, South Korea provides substantial support to defectors. This includes financial assistance, typically around $10,000, and housing to help them establish themselves. Integration programs are also available, covering everything from language and cultural training to job placement assistance, including lessons on how to navigate modern technology and manage finances. This holistic approach aims to ease the transition for North Koreans, acknowledging the significant cultural and societal differences they face.
Interestingly, it’s worth noting the historical context. During the Korean War, as part of peace negotiations, the North demanded the return of all North Korean POWs, even those who had embraced anti-communism and wished to remain in the South. Syngman Rhee, the South Korean president at the time, refused and, in an act of principle, released 27,000 former North Korean POWs into the South Korean population. This event underscores the long-standing commitment to the idea of a unified Korea, and their commitment to support those who seek a better life.
However, the reality of integration isn’t always smooth. Adjusting to life in South Korea can be challenging for North Koreans, partly due to the vast differences in cultural norms and societal expectations. Defectors often face difficulties in finding employment, navigating social structures, and adapting to the fast-paced, technologically advanced South Korean lifestyle. Even with the language being the same, the differences can be vast.
Yet, despite these challenges, South Korea’s commitment to its principles remains evident. It’s a principled stance that is sadly lacking in much of the world. Even with any political capital erosion by the current government. They see these people not just as potential sources of intelligence, but as fellow Koreans in need of assistance and a chance at a better life.
The potential for intelligence gathering is undeniably present, but South Korea’s primary focus seems to be on offering refuge. The government’s stance is that they are not a propaganda tool, and not there to exploit these people, but to help them. A lot of North Koreans have watched South Korean TV and radio broadcasts. They know South Korea is wealthy and people are free.
The South Korean government will also provide education, and has a dedicated program. These programs are designed to assist them in becoming productive members of society. In essence, it’s a compassionate approach rooted in the belief that all Koreans, regardless of their origin, deserve a chance at freedom and a better life, and that it isn’t worth trading that away for intel.
This humanitarian focus is even more remarkable considering the highly sensitive political relationship between the two Koreas. South Korea’s willingness to welcome North Korean defectors, even those who may have served in the military, is a strong statement of principle and a display of unconditional acceptance.