S. Korea Weighs Step-by-Step Role in US-Led Strait of Hormuz Plan

(MENAFN) South Korea is considering a phased approach to contributing to a US-led maritime security initiative aimed at ensuring safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, according to statements from the country’s defense leadership cited in reports.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back said Seoul has communicated to US officials that it is prepared to act as a responsible member of the international community and is evaluating incremental contributions to stability in the strategically vital waterway.

Possible measures under review include expressing formal support for the initiative, deploying personnel, sharing intelligence, and providing select military assets. However, direct combat involvement has not yet been discussed in detail, according to reports.

Ahn also held talks with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, where discussions reportedly included broader alliance matters such as wartime operational control transfer and South Korea’s plans to develop nuclear-powered submarines.

Both sides agreed to begin working-level consultations on maritime security at the earliest opportunity, despite heightened regional tensions linked to ongoing US-Iran conflict dynamics.

The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global energy corridor, with roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil passing through it daily. Reports indicate that insecurity in the region has disrupted crude flows from Gulf producers, particularly affecting Asian markets, while also increasing shipping and insurance costs.

The current instability is tied to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran that began on Feb. 28, which triggered retaliatory actions from Tehran and heightened tensions across the Gulf, including disruptions to maritime traffic.

A ceasefire was reached on April 8 through Pakistani mediation, though subsequent negotiations failed to produce a lasting agreement.

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