South Korea's foreign minister does not rule out severing ties with Ukraine

Official Seoul warns of escalation

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of South Korea expressed concern regarding the prospects for the further development of the diplomatic crisis with Ukraine. As reported by the Yonhap news agency, the head of the department, Cho Hyeon, did not rule out the possibility of a complete termination of diplomatic relations between the two states. The main cause of the tension was cited as the dispute that arose over the issue of North Korean prisoners of war.

Resonant response from the minister

Commenting on the situation, Cho Hyeon answered a question from a member of parliament on whether the current conflict threatens a rupture in diplomatic ties. The minister stated: "Yes, if the situation continues to escalate, such a possibility exists" (Yes, if the situation continues to escalate, such a possibility exists).

Context of events

It was previously reported that against the backdrop of a scandal related to the actions of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, South Korea recalled eight staff members of its embassy from Kyiv.