South Koreans 82% Public Oppose Supplying Weapons to Ukraine,

A recent poll by Gallup Korea reveals that 82% of South Koreans oppose supplying weapons to Ukraine, highlighting significant public resistance despite growing fears over North Korea's alleged military collaboration with Russia. While the majority of the South Korean public views the Ukraine conflict as a pressing international issue, their hesitancy stems from concerns over national priorities and geopolitical repercussions.

South Korea has thus far refrained from direct arms transfers to Ukraine, focusing instead on non-lethal aid such as medical supplies and humanitarian support. This aligns with findings from earlier surveys, where a majority favored non-military assistance, reflecting a public sentiment that values cautious engagement in global conflicts.

The opposition was further underscored during a Ukrainian delegation’s visit to Seoul, which sparked protests near President Yoon Suk Yeol’s office. Demonstrators demanded the government reject any plans to send lethal aid, signaling fears of escalating tensions with Russia. Moscow has explicitly warned South Korea against military involvement, with Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko cautioning Seoul to avoid "reckless actions" that could damage bilateral relations.

Experts suggest the reluctance is rooted in South Korea's strategic interests. Yang Uk from the Asan Institute for Policy Studies noted that the public is more concerned about the domestic and diplomatic costs of such decisions than the immediate stakes of the Ukraine war. With an ever-present threat from North Korea and the importance of maintaining stable relations with regional powers, South Korea appears to prioritize long-term stability over aligning with Western calls for military aid to Ukraine.

The potential involvement of North Korean soldiers and weapons in Ukraine has added another layer of complexity. Reports indicate Pyongyang is supplying Moscow with military equipment, including ballistic missiles and artillery, to bolster Russian forces. However, South Korea’s measured stance reflects its cautious diplomacy, balancing global expectations with national security concerns.

Ultimately, the South Korean government seems inclined to continue its policy of limited support for Ukraine, opting for non-lethal aid while navigating the intricate web of geopolitical pressures. As tensions between North Korea and the West escalate, Seoul's decision-making will likely remain cautious, shaped by both public opinion and the broader regional dynamics.