Kyiv: A Ukrainian defense intelligence official has mentioned the possibility of sending North Korean soldiers captured during combat to South Korea, marking the first such acknowledgment by Kyiv. Andriy Chernyak, a representative of Ukraine's defense intelligence, discussed this potential move in an exclusive interview with Yonhap News Agency. Chernyak noted that Ukraine is closely cooperating with the South Korean government and emphasized the strong connections between their defense intelligence and special forces.

According to Yonhap News Agency, one of the two North Korean soldiers detained in Ukraine has expressed a desire to defect to South Korea. In response, the South Korean government has indicated its willingness to offer protection and support, treating them as South Korean citizens in accordance with the country's Constitution. Chernyak, however, refrained from disclosing the precise location where the North Korean prisoners are being held, assuring that their needs are being met in a secure environment.

Chernyak highlighted the significant presence of approximately 11,000 North Korean soldiers fighting for Russia, describing them as a "real problem" not only for Ukraine but also for the Asia-Pacific region. He reported that around 4,000 of these soldiers have been killed or seriously wounded, yet some may return to combat after recovery. He expressed concerns about the military cooperation between Russia and North Korea, as it prolongs the conflict and allows North Korean soldiers to acquire valuable combat experience.

Addressing reports of North Korean troops disappearing from the front lines, Chernyak dismissed these claims, explaining that they were temporarily withdrawn due to heavy losses but have since returned to the battlefield. He warned that North Korea could potentially send an additional 150,000 troops in support of Russia's invasion. Despite initial setbacks, Chernyak acknowledged that North Korean soldiers have quickly adapted and improved their skills, demonstrating bravery and fearlessness in combat.

Chernyak also touched on the dynamics between North Korean and Russian soldiers, noting that Russian troops tend to undervalue their North Korean counterparts. However, he praised the capabilities of the North Korean soldiers, recognizing their growing proficiency in warfare.

In discussing ongoing negotiations between the United States and Russia, Chernyak expressed concerns that Moscow will attempt to undermine Ukraine's military capabilities. He noted that Russia is intensifying its intelligence operations, which could be used to influence the negotiation process. Despite these challenges, Chernyak remained optimistic about Ukraine's ability to hold the front line and emphasized the heavy human cost Russia has incurred in the conflict.