North Korea condemns UK sanctions on children’s camp

Friday 15 May 2026 - 09:30

North Korea strongly criticised the United Kingdom after London imposed sanctions on the Songdowon International Children’s Camp, a facility accused of involvement in activities linked to Ukrainian children transferred from territories occupied by Russia. The dispute adds further tension to the growing diplomatic divide surrounding the war in Ukraine and the international response to Russia’s allies.

British authorities announced sanctions against the camp earlier this month, including an asset freeze, claiming the institution may have supported programmes connected to the forced relocation and political re-education of Ukrainian children. The UK Foreign Office also stated that the camp’s activities were considered harmful to Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Pyongyang rejected the accusations and described the British measures as politically motivated. According to statements released by North Korea’s state media, officials argued that London was attempting to damage the country’s international reputation while also targeting the close relationship between North Korea and Russia.

The controversy follows reports published by human rights organisations claiming that some Ukrainian children from occupied areas were taken to the camp in recent years. Researchers alleged that the children participated in ideological activities and military-themed educational programmes during their stay.

North Korean authorities defended the facility, describing it as an important educational and cultural centre designed to promote friendship and development among young people. Officials also denied any connection to forced deportation or political indoctrination.

Located near the eastern coastal city of Wonsan, the Songdowon International Children’s Camp has hosted foreign visitors for decades. The camp was originally established to encourage international exchanges between children from different countries and continues to receive visitors from several nations, including Russia and China.

The issue of Ukrainian children transferred from conflict zones remains highly sensitive internationally. Ukrainian officials and human rights groups continue to express concern over thousands of children reported missing, displaced, or deported since the beginning of the conflict in 2022.