The head of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Ahn Chang-ho, expressed that the two North Korean soldiers who were taken captive during the Russia-Ukraine conflict should not be sent back against their will.
Chairperson Ahn made a statement on the 21st, stating, “The matter of returning North Korean soldiers is not just a diplomatic or security concern but a critical human rights issue that directly affects people’s lives,” and highlighted, “Forced return should be banned, and humanitarian safeguards are essential.”
According to international law concerning prisoners of war, it is forbidden to forcibly return people to nations where they might encounter persecution, torture, or other serious dangers. He referenced the Third Geneva Convention and the United Nations’ (UN) principle of non-refoulement, noting, “The government must take active steps to allow North Korean soldiers to decide freely to come to South Korea.”
He stated, “The government has previously declared that it will offer the required protection and assistance to them in line with applicable laws.” Earlier this February, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “North Korean soldiers are our citizens under the Constitution,” and highlighted that respecting people’s choice about repatriation is consistent with international law and standards, noting, “They should not be sent back to areas where they risk persecution against their will.”
Two North Korean soldiers, who were taken prisoner by Ukrainian forces, reportedly expressed a wish to travel to South Korea. Ri Mo, 26, a member of a North Korean reconnaissance and sniper unit stationed in Russia’s Kursk area, shared with this newspaper in an interview last February, “I’ve decided 80% on going to South Korea.” In a meeting with People Power Party Representative Yu Yong-weon last March, he stated, “I truly want to see my parents” and asked, “If I go to South Korea, will I be able to live freely and have the rights I want?”
In reply, Chairperson Ahn stated, “The government should ask for comprehensive oversight from the UN and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to make sure that North Korean troops are treated in line with international law.”
