Cheong Wa Dae: "On contribution to the Strait of Hormuz, we are in close communication and wide-ranging talks with allies including the U.S."

The Financial News reported that on the 20th, Cheong Wa Dae, the Blue House, addressed U.S. President Donald Trump’s request for the dispatch of warships to the Strait of Hormuz, saying, "Regarding South Korea’s contribution plan, we are in close communication with key allies, including the United States of America (U.S.), and are engaged in multifaceted consultations."
A Cheong Wa Dae official stated, "The situation in the Middle East is a major issue in international affairs, and we cannot rule out the possibility that it will be prolonged. In particular, any disruption to passage through the Strait of Hormuz would have a direct impact on South Korea’s energy supply and its economy."
The official went on, "The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), among others in the international community, view the current situation in the Strait of Hormuz as serious and have raised the need for a joint response by the international community. To ensure free passage through the Strait of Hormuz, many countries are now reviewing how they can contribute."
The official added, "Our government believes that the safety of international sea lanes and freedom of navigation serve the interests of all countries and are protected under international law. Based on this, our fundamental position is that global maritime logistics should be restored to normal as soon as possible."
He also explained, "We are carefully reviewing possible responses while taking into account our domestic laws and procedures, as well as readiness on the Korean Peninsula," and noted that "we are seeking a combination of options that best serves our national interest."
Earlier, on the 14th (local time), President Donald Trump used Truth Social to call on allies, including the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), South Korea, and Japan, to dispatch warships to the Strait of Hormuz.
cjk@fnnews.com Choi Jong-geun Reporter