Geun Shares Update: "Conducting Confidential Missions with US and UK Veterans with Combat Experience"

"Formed a Special Operations Team After Signing the Contract"
"Received Full Support from Ukrainian Forces and Citizens"

Captain Lee Geun, former Navy Special Warfare Group / Photo by Lee Geun, Instagram capture

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Ju-hyung] Captain Lee Geun, a former Navy Special Warfare Command officer and YouTuber who joined the Ukrainian foreign volunteer force 'Territorial Defense Forces International Legion' (International Legion), has broken his silence and shared an update on his current status. He claimed that he is conducting special operations alongside foreign agents from the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

On the 30th, Lee posted a photo on his Instagram showing himself armed with military uniform, ballistic helmet, and firearms, stating, "To the people of the Republic of Korea. Since I entered Ukraine, numerous speculations and confusion about my whereabouts have been rampant," and added, "I want to share the situation with you and clear up misunderstandings."

He continued, "After arriving at the International Legion and signing the contract, I gathered foreign agents from the US, UK, and other countries with combat experience to form a special operations team," explaining, "My team has carried out several classified missions, but I ask that you refrain from speculating about the specific timing or locations of these missions."

He said, "As of yesterday, our team has moved to another area and is participating in direct offensive operations," and added, "Due to security reasons, I ask for your understanding that I cannot disclose any further detailed information."

Lee emphasized, "I am receiving full support and backing from the Ukrainian military and people, and the Ukrainian people are deeply grateful for our contributions with one heart."

He also added, "This information was posted with the authorization of the International Legion and does not violate operational security."

Lee and two companions forced their departure to Ukraine earlier this month. / Photo by Lee Geun, Instagram capture

Earlier, on the 6th, Lee had announced his intention to join the International Legion through his social media account. Afterward, he forcibly departed for Ukraine with two companions.

The government currently has issued a 'Level 4 Travel Alert,' banning civilian travel throughout Ukraine. Lee and his group left the country without government permission, and the police have received complaints against 10 people, including Lee, and are conducting an investigation on charges of violating the Passport Act.

The International Legion, established on the 27th, three days after the large-scale invasion by Russian forces on the 24th (local time), is reported to have about 20,000 soldiers from 52 countries. Among them, Koreans including Lee have been confirmed to be part of the force.

On the 28th, Damian Magro, spokesperson for the International Legion, told 'Yonhap News,' "Some Korean volunteers are assigned to units fighting on the front lines and are active," adding, "For operational security and the safety of the members, we cannot confirm the exact locations of individual legionnaires."

He continued, "Besides Korea, there are several countries that prohibit entry into Ukraine or enlistment in the International Legion, but these actions are not problematic under Ukrainian domestic law or international law," emphasizing, "Those who come all the way to Ukraine to enlist in the International Legion each understand well their own reasons for being here."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.