During her meeting with President Yoon Suk Yeol in Seoul, Ukraine's first lady Olena Zelenska requested air defense systems and non-lethal military equipment from South Korea. This has been confirmed by both countries.

During her visit to South Korea as a representative of the Ukrainian president, Zelenska asked for various items such as mine detectors, demining equipment, and first aid vehicles, according to Lee Do-woon, the spokesperson for South Korea's president.

The presidential office of Ukraine stated that Zelenska informed Yoon about their requirement for assistance in the technologies that South Korea is renowned for.

What changed?

Despite the ongoing war in Ukraine, South Korea has consistently refused to supply weapons to any involved parties. However, there are indications that this policy may change. During a meeting with the Ukrainian first lady, Yoon hinted at a possible shift in policy. Additionally, the first lady expressed her desire for South Korean companies to participate in rebuilding efforts in Ukraine.

Yoon conveyed his sympathies to Zelenska for the victims and people of Ukraine and assured her that South Korea would extend assistance to Ukraine in collaboration with NATO nations and the global community.

Zelenska had a separate meeting with South Korea's first lady, Kim Keon-hee, who commended the Ukrainian leader for her brave and dedicated efforts during a time of war, as reported by the spokesperson for the presidential office.

According to the Ukrainian officials, the wife of the Ukrainian president gave Yoon a special letter and an invitation from the president of Ukraine to come and visit their country.

Zelenska traveled to the country to attend the Asian Leadership Conference along with Ukraine's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy Yulia Svyrydenko and Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Rostyslav Shurma, as stated by Ukraine's presidential office.

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South Korea's Air Defense Systems

South Korea is known for its advanced air defense systems, including the Patriot missile defense system and the Korean Air and Missile Defense system. Ukraine, which has been at war with pro-Russian separatists since 2014, has expressed interest in upgrading its military capabilities.

(Photo : by LEE JIN-MAN/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (C) leaves after a visit to the National Cemetery in Seoul on May 17, 2023.

South Korea and Ukraine have been strengthening their ties in recent years, particularly in the areas of defense and technology. In 2018, South Korean President Moon Jae-in visited Ukraine to discuss potential cooperation between the two countries.

One area where there has been collaboration is in the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Ukrainian company Antonov partnered with South Korean firm Hanwha Systems to create a UAV capable of conducting intelligence-gathering missions.

There have also been discussions about joint military exercises between South Korea and Ukraine. The two countries share similar security concerns regarding North Korea's nuclear program as well as Russia's annexation of Crimea.

In addition to defense cooperation, there are opportunities for economic partnerships between the two nations. Ukraine possesses significant natural resources such as coal and iron ore while South Korea is known for its advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Overall, it appears that relations between these nations will continue to strengthen in various fields including politics, economics, and defense.

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