According to the report from Reuters, South Korea is under growing pressure from international allies to supply weapons to Ukraine, but strong domestic opposition threatens to derail the plans.
Recent polls show that 82% of South Koreans oppose providing military aid, even as North Korea’s reported support for Russia adds to regional tensions.
On Wednesday, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov met with South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to discuss cooperation and potential arms support.
This follows reports that thousands of North Korean troops have been sent to bolster Russian forces in Ukraine. Yoon’s office stated that both sides agreed to share intelligence on North Korea’s military involvement in the conflict.
While South Korea has provided non-lethal aid to Ukraine, such as body armor and demining vehicles, the idea of sending weapons has sparked protests.
Outside Yoon’s office, demonstrators held banners reading, “No to the South Korean government planning arms supply to Ukraine.”
Analysts say the public’s resistance stems from concerns about direct involvement in the war and the potential fallout with Russia.
Moscow has warned that arms shipments to Ukraine would “completely destroy” relations with Seoul.
In response, a South Korean official argued that Russia should consider how its support for North Korea threatens regional security.
Domestically, Yoon is battling low approval ratings due to unrelated scandals, further complicating his ability to push controversial foreign policy decisions.
Opposition parties have criticized his openness to supplying weapons without parliamentary approval, though experts note he could bypass lawmakers if necessary.
Despite the backlash, South Korea’s position as a leading arms exporter adds another layer of complexity.
The nation has inked defense deals with Ukraine’s neighbors and could leverage these ties to increase its influence globally. However, public opposition may limit how far Seoul is willing to go.
