On February 24, marking the fourth anniversary of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the Russian Embassy in South Korea faced backlash over a large banner reading 'Victory is Ours.' This phrase, which originated during World War II, has been interpreted as a glorification of the invasion and incited controversy among the local community. Despite prior diplomatic pressure from the South Korean government, which had called on the Russian officials to remove the banner due to its provocative nature, the embassy only complied later in the day after public condemnation and protests against the invasion were organized in the embassy's vicinity.

The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs had highlighted the illegality of Russia's actions in Ukraine and warned that the banner could create unnecessary tension among the citizens of South Korea and other nations. Additionally, there were concerns that the continued display of such a banner would undermine diplomatic relations and provoke local communities. This mounting pressure likely contributed to the eventual removal of the banner, which occurred later in the afternoon after it had initially remained on display for several hours despite calls for its removal.

In a noticeable shift from previous years, the Russian Embassy canceled a planned public march in honor of 'Defender of the Fatherland Day,' opting instead to hold an internal celebration. This change indicates an awareness of the negative external perception regarding the embassy's activities. During last year's event, the Russian ambassador made claims that the date of the invasion marked the end of a unipolar world and symbolized a transition to a fair and democratic multipolar international order, a statement that was met with criticism. In stark contrast, that day, Russian nationals protested outside the embassy, holding signs in support of Ukraine and criticizing President Vladimir Putin, indicating a growing dissent within the Russian community against the war.