[Breaking] Blue House: “Mulling expansion of Cheonghae Unit in Strait of Hormuz... absolutely no involvement in war”

[Financial News] The Blue House said it is considering strengthening and expanding the Cheonghae Unit to restore freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and protect Korean merchant ships. It reaffirmed, however, the principle that South Korea will not become involved or intervene in the war in the Middle East under any circumstances.
At a press briefing on the 30th at the Chunchugwan Press Center at the Blue House, Wi Sung-lac, chief of the Blue House Office of National Security, said: “Our government has continued to explore ways to play the necessary role and make contributions to protect our people and safeguard our economic interests, while communicating closely with the international community on restoring freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.”
Wi said, “Specifically, we are weighing options such as strengthening and expanding the Cheonghae Unit, but the review has not yet been finalized.”
He made clear in particular that an expanded military role would not lead to involvement in the war.
Wi stressed, “We will maintain the principle that we will absolutely not become involved or intervene in any war under any circumstances, as well as our stance of carrying out only the minimum activities and making the international contributions necessary to protect Korean merchant ships, ensure crude oil shipments, and safeguard the lives and safety of our people.”
Currently, several countries, including South Korea, the United Kingdom, France and Japan, are deploying destroyers and patrol aircraft to escort ships and support safe passage in the Middle East and the Horn of Africa.
Wi said that, since the situation in the Strait of Hormuz developed, major countries have been moving to deploy additional naval vessels and aircraft.
He added, “Our government is taking these considerations into account as it explores the minimum role we need to play,” and said, “Once concrete plans are drawn up, we will explain them transparently and clearly to the public and the National Assembly.”
[email protected] Choi Jong-geun Reporter