Experts caution against escalation between Korea, Ukraine

South Korea is weighing its next move against Ukraine — including a potential recall of its ambassador to Ukraine — after deeming Kyiv's apology over the public disclosure of a North Korean prisoner of war transfer "insufficient," even as experts urge Seoul to de-escalate, warning that a deepening rift could damage long-term ties with Europe. South Korea's Foreign Minister Cho Hyun signaled the hardening stance Tuesday, speaking during a parliamentary audit that Ukraine's foreign minister had sent a message that "included words of apology" but fell short of what Seoul had expected. "We intend to take firm measures," Cho said, adding that recalling ambassador Park Hee-chang was among the options under consideration. The foreign ministry formalized that position Wednesday, saying Seoul had urged Kyiv to provide a "clear explanation and apology" for disclosing the transfer and for issuing what it called "false statements" denying the existence of a confidentiality agreement. "While Ukraine subsequently presented its position, South Korea considers that the response fell short of an adeq