As a country that has formerly experienced war, most in Korea express sympathy for Ukraine and support the government standing up for Ukraine and condemning Russia. Following the steps of the NATO countries, Korea has also placed sanctions on Russia.

So far, South Korea has provided the US $1000 worth of humanitarian aid. Ukraine had initially asked for mass-killing weapons as well, but South Korea has refused to provide such weapons. Instead, the country has proposed to provide humanitarian defense goods, such as combat helmets, foods, and MREs (“meals ready to eat”). During a call, Zelensky asked for all the possible aid that Korea can offer and Moon responded that “The Korean government has decided to provide ₩12.3 billion worth of emergency relief to Ukraine.”

Besides the government support, civilians all across Korea are gathering to support Ukraine in any way they can. People have been donating money and the Ukraine Embassy in Seoul has launched a fundraiser with the aim to help Ukraine. Just two days after its launch, Koreans had already donated ₩800 million. Some people are even volunteering to fight for Ukraine by joining the Ukrainian force. However, Ukraine is now a travel restricted area. Violation results in fines up to ₩10 million fine or a year of imprisonment.

The controversy arose when a retired captain of a Korean SEAL named Ken Rhee (이근), went to Ukraine to fight even having violated the travel law. He said on his Instagram that he was fully aware of his action and will bear all the legal consequences once he returns home alive. Some are supportive of him for his bravery and boldness, while others pointed out his complete negligence of the government’s guidelines, criticized him for unnecessarily aggravating the relationship with Russia even more, and expressed concerns if his action might possibly create a diplomatically complex situation.

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