Seoul
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un could be investigated for war crimes by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for supporting Russia in its war against Ukraine. This statement came from Song Sang-hyun, former president of the ICC, during an international conference held in Seoul on Monday.
Last month, North Korea confirmed that it had sent troops to Russia to aid Moscow in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. This marks the first official acknowledgment of such military support from Pyongyang.
Song stated that this move gives Ukraine the legal right to bring a case against Kim at the ICC. Although Kim has not previously been referred to the court for his human rights record in North Korea, Song believes the time is right for justice.
“The military help North Korea gave to Russia allows Ukraine to file a complaint with the ICC,” Song said. He explained that Ukraine, as the victim, can submit a formal complaint. However, the ICC also has the power to begin an independent investigation without a complaint.
In 2023, the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin. If Kim is similarly charged, the warrant would ban him from entering any of the ICC's 124 member nations.
Song added that such a warrant, even without arrest, carries heavy lifelong consequences. It creates global stigma and psychological pressure on the accused.
He urged the ICC to take stronger action against crimes committed by the North Korean leadership and hold them accountable for their roles in international conflicts.