Strait of Hormuz: South Korea Seeks Safe Passage in Middle East Crisis

South Korea is engaging in consultations with Iran and other countries to ensure the safe and swift passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, following Tehran’s announcement that it is prepared to allow Japan-bound vessels to transit the strategic waterway, a South Korean foreign ministry official said on Saturday.

“The government is closely monitoring developments in the Middle East while exploring ways to protect our citizens and secure energy transport routes,” the official said. “We are communicating actively with relevant countries, including Iran.”

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi told Kyodo News Agency that Tehran is ready to permit Japan-bound ships to navigate the strait after consultations with Tokyo. The Strait of Hormuz is a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, with over 20 per cent of the world’s oil passing through its waters. All navigable lanes for oil tankers lie within Iranian territorial waters, making the strait a vital lifeline for East Asian countries, including South Korea and Japan.

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On Friday, South Korea joined seven other countries, including Japan and several European nations, in a joint statement condemning Iran’s recent attacks in the Gulf and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The move came amid heightened tensions in the region following US and Israeli airstrikes.

US President Donald Trump stated on Friday that the United States is considering “winding down” its military operations against Iran, while calling on South Korea, China, Japan, and other nations to participate in efforts to secure the strait. Trump claimed that US objectives—including neutralising Iran’s missile capabilities, defence infrastructure, and preventing nuclear armament—are “very close” to being achieved.

The situation in the Gulf has raised concerns over a potential global energy crisis, as Iran’s temporary blockade of the Strait of Hormuz disrupted vital oil shipments. South Korea’s diplomatic efforts, in coordination with Tehran and other partners, aim to restore stability and ensure uninterrupted maritime trade through this key route.

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