South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has indicated that his country may consider extending support to Ukraine beyond humanitarian and economic aid if the country faces large-scale civilian attacks, according to Reuters. This marks the first time Yoon has suggested providing arms to Ukraine.
In a Reuters interview ahead of his U.S. state visit, Yoon said South Korea has been evaluating how to help defend and rebuild Ukraine, drawing a parallel with the international aid South Korea received during the 1950-53 Korean War. Yoon stated, "If there is a situation the international community cannot condone, such as any large-scale attack on civilians, massacre or serious violation of the laws of war, it might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or financial support."
This is the first time Seoul has indicated a willingness to provide weapons to Ukraine, after ruling out lethal aid over a year ago. South Korea, a key U.S. ally and significant artillery ammunition producer, has been cautious about antagonizing Russia due to its companies operating there and Moscow's influence over North Korea.
Yoon is scheduled to visit Washington next week for a summit with U.S. President Joe Biden to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the two countries' alliance. During the summit, Yoon intends to seek "tangible outcomes" on the allies' efforts to address evolving threats from North Korea, which recently escalated military tests and launched its first solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile.
In response, Seoul will enhance its surveillance, reconnaissance, and intelligence analysis capabilities and develop "ultra-high-performance, high-power weapons" to counter North Korea's threats. Yoon emphasized the importance of preventing a nuclear war between South and North Korea, as it would have devastating consequences for the entire Northeast Asia region.
When asked about the possibility of an Asian version of NATO's nuclear planning group involving Japan, Yoon said the focus is on bilateral measures to strengthen information-sharing, joint contingency planning, and joint execution of plans.
Yoon expressed his openness to peace talks with North Korea but opposes any "surprise" summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un for domestic political reasons. He criticized past governments for their sudden announcements of inter-Korean talks, which he believes did not build trust.
Yoon believes that humanitarian aid could pave the way for dialogue, with both sides potentially building on those discussions to address more sensitive topics, including economic and military matters.
