The Ukrainian delegation led by the Minister of Defense Rustem Umeryov made an official visit to South Korea this week. The main objective was to discuss the current situation in Ukraine and the possibility of military assistance from Seoul. The event generated interest both in political circles and among the international community.
Main Purpose of the Visit
Umeryov’s visit was an important step in strengthening Ukrainian-Korean relations. The main task of the delegation is to urge South Korea to reconsider its policy on supplying arms to Ukraine. Currently, Seoul only provides non-lethal aid, avoiding the transfer of weapons to countries in a state of war.
The Ukrainian side aims to expand cooperation in the defense sector, including obtaining modern air defense systems and artillery ammunition, which are critically lacking on the front lines.
High-Level Negotiations
As part of the visit, the delegation has already met with South Korea’s National Security Adviser Shin Won-Sik. It is also expected that a meeting will take place with the country’s president, Yoon Suk-Yeol. These negotiations could be crucial for the future relations between Kyiv and Seoul.
However, the Korean government has not officially confirmed the arrival of the Ukrainian delegation, and representatives from the president’s office and the defense ministry refrained from commenting.
Visit Preconditions
It is worth noting that the issue of military support for Ukraine by South Korea has been discussed on the international level multiple times. In October, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in an interview with the Korean TV channel KBS, announced the sending of an official request for arms supplies.
In addition, Minister of Defense Umierov recently presented Ukraine’s defense needs at a meeting with representatives of defense agencies from Great Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and Poland.
South Korea’s Position
South Korea is one of the leading arms producers in the world, but has so far avoided supplying arms to Ukraine due to internal legislative restrictions. The country has a law that prohibits the transfer of arms to states at war.
However, the situation is gradually changing. South Korean President Yoon Suk-Yeol announced in November that his country is willing to reconsider its position. If a decision is made, the first batch of arms will be defensive.
Geopolitical Context
South Korea is closely monitoring events in Ukraine, taking into account possible threats from North Korea, which supports Russia, as well as the development of relations between Russia and China. Western countries are pressuring Seoul to change its position.
What to Expect from the Visit?
A visit by the Ukrainian delegation could serve as an important signal to other Asian countries. If Seoul decides to supply arms, it will significantly strengthen Ukraine’s position on the international stage.
We look forward to the results of the negotiations, which could mark the beginning of a new stage in Ukrainian-Korean relations.
