Ukrainian delegation heads to Seoul seeking weapons aid amid North Korea's support for Russia

According to Reuters, the Ukrainian delegation headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met with South Korea’s National Security Adviser Shin Won-sik to discuss Russia's full'scale war.

The South China Morning Post also cited sources saying the delegation is seeking advanced weaponry, with meetings reportedly planned with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. However, neither Yoon’s office nor South Korea’s Defence Ministry has confirmed the visit.

In October, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told South Korean broadcaster KBS that Kyiv would formally request arms support, including artillery and air defence systems.

Umerov has emphasized Ukraine’s urgent need for air defence systems and artillery ammunition due to intensified Russian attacks, according to Ukrainian media.

While Seoul has been pressured by Kyiv and Western allies to send weapons, it has so far limited support to non-lethal aid like demining equipment. South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul recently stated that Seoul is monitoring North Korea’s involvement in aiding Russia before deciding on further steps.

For now, South Korea remains cautious, balancing its growing arms production capabilities with geopolitical considerations.