South Korea is evaluating the possibility of joining NATO’s Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), a program aimed at facilitating the procurement of American weapons for Ukraine.
If South Korea decides to participate, it could enhance its defense ties with Europe while potentially straining relations with Russia. The country’s involvement may mirror Japan’s approach, likely focusing on the purchase of non-lethal military equipment.
The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed ongoing discussions with NATO regarding various forms of support for Ukraine. An official stated that NATO has reached out to South Korea to join the PURL initiative.
The official emphasized that Seoul’s stance on assisting Ukraine, which has been affected by the ongoing conflict, is centered on humanitarian aid and non-lethal military supplies, without specifying whether the government is leaning towards joining the initiative.
Launched last year, the PURL program facilitates the supply of American weapons to Ukraine through European countries. This initiative allows Kyiv to receive air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition.
Funding for the program has already been allocated, with contributions from Denmark (approximately 580 million Danish kroner), Sweden (275 million dollars), Norway (135 million dollars), the Netherlands (500 million euros), and Germany.
The first shipments of military equipment under PURL arrived in Ukraine in September 2025, with additional deliveries anticipated soon.
Currently, over 20 NATO member countries are participating in the PURL program. Recently, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan have also joined the initiative.
The United Kingdom has allocated a funding package for the procurement of American weapons for Ukraine. U.S. Ambassador to NATO, Matthew Whitaker, noted that Germany, the Netherlands, and Norway have been the top purchasers of American weapons for Ukraine through the PURL program.
In a recent statement, former U.S. President Donald Trump claimed that America is no longer spending money on Ukraine, contrasting with previous administrations, and is instead profiting from the PURL program.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced that this year, the U.S. will supply Ukraine with 15 billion dollars worth of its own weapons, funded by Europe.
South Korea is contemplating joining NATO's PURL initiative to support Ukraine through the procurement of American weapons. The potential move could strengthen defense ties with Europe while affecting relations with Russia, as discussions continue on the nature of South Korea's contributions.