The authorities of South Korea have asked the Russian Embassy to remove a massive banner displayed on the facade of its building in Seoul. The banner, written in Russian and reading “Victory will be ours,” appeared just ahead of the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

According to Reuters, South Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally conveyed its dissatisfaction to Russian diplomats. It remains unclear whether the embassy has issued any response to the request.

Reuters reported that the exterior banner, designed in the colors of the Russian flag and measuring approximately 15 meters in height, was installed on the embassy building in central Seoul last Tuesday, shortly before the anniversary of the invasion. Journalists noted that the banner was still hanging in place at the time of their report.

In an official statement, South Korea’s Foreign Ministry reiterated its position that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is unlawful. The ministry also called for an end to military cooperation between Moscow and North Korea.

Reuters journalists attempted to obtain a comment from the Russian Embassy. However, an automated message informed them that the embassy was closed in observance of February 23, Defender of the Fatherland Day, a public holiday in Russia.

North Korea and Russia

In 2024, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a mutual defense agreement with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Under this pact, North Korea reportedly deployed around 14,000 troops to support Russian forces in the war against Ukraine. According to South Korean, Ukrainian, and Western sources, more than 6,000 of these soldiers have been killed.

Reports indicate that North Korean troops were primarily engaged in combat operations in Russia’s Kursk region.

On February 16, it was announced that Kim Jong Un inaugurated a new residential complex in Pyongyang intended for the families of soldiers who died while fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine. Kim stated that the new district represents the “spirit and sacrifice” of the fallen troops, adding that the housing is meant to help grieving families take pride in their sons and husbands and continue their lives with dignity.