South Korea's foreign ministry emphasized on Sunday the diverse situations facing ships and nations in the Strait of Hormuz, following the recent transit of two Japan-linked tankers through the Iran-blocked waterway. This comes amid the ongoing crisis sparked by late February U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, which stranded 26 South Korean vessels carrying 173 sailors. Seoul prioritizes crew safety while seeking to restore navigation freedom under international norms.
South Korea's foreign ministry stated Sunday that vessels in the Strait of Hormuz differ significantly in nationality, ownership, operators, cargo, destinations, and crew composition, resulting in unique circumstances for each ship and associated countries.
"We prioritize the safety of vessels and crew while considering shipping companies' positions," the ministry told media. In recent developments, ships linked to China, Thailand, and France have also transited the strait, building on Iran's earlier conditional allowances, including for Japan-bound vessels after bilateral talks.
Iran has permitted passages through consultations but is imposing tolls as leverage over global energy supplies. Diplomatic sources say Seoul is not pursuing vessel withdrawals due to attack risks and companies' choices to stay.
The ministry is coordinating with major countries—excluding the United States—to address energy disruptions and swiftly restore safe, free navigation for all vessels, including Korean ones, in line with international law. This follows initial consultations with Iran and others in late March.
