The diplomatic row between Ukraine and South Korea has reached its most serious point yet. Seoul has decided to recall its ambassador stationed in Ukraine and bring the envoy home. Ordering an ambassador to leave a posting of this kind is rare for South Korea's diplomacy. The country has hardly ever taken such a step over the past two decades, which is why the move stands out. The recall points to a sharp deterioration in relations between the two capitals. What prompted the escalation has not been spelled out in the available details. For now, the withdrawal leaves South Korea's diplomatic presence in Kyiv reduced.