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South Korea has refused to supply weapons to Ukraine, including anti-aircraft missiles and artillery systems, due to legal restrictions that prohibit arms exports to countries with ongoing military conflicts. This was reported by South Korean TV channel SBS on Thursday, 28 November.
A Ukrainian delegation headed by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov recently visited South Korea to negotiate a commercial purchase of weapons, rather than receiving them free of charge. In particular, the “wish list” included modern air defence systems and artillery equipment.
At the same time, the South Korean government rejected these requests, citing existing legislation that restricts arms exports to countries at war.
“Ukraine understands the legal restrictions that exist in South Korea, but hopes for further cooperation in the field of military and technical support,” Ukrainian diplomats commented on the situation.
South Korea has previously supported Ukraine with humanitarian aid and technical equipment. However, the issue of arms supplies remains complicated due to the country’s domestic policy of avoiding involvement in armed conflicts.
Ukraine continues active negotiations with international partners to expand military support to counter Russian aggression.
