South Korea Says It Is Consulting Iran on Korean Ships’ Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

Cheong Wa Dae said Tuesday it is actively seeking ways to resolve navigation issues involving South Korean vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, including through consultations with the Iranian government.
 
Senior presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung made the remarks at a briefing at the Chunchugwan press center, responding to a question about whether there had been progress for South Korean ships after reports that a Japanese tanker had made its first passage through the strait with Iranian authorization.
 
Kang said the matter requires consideration of multiple factors, including ship safety and the position of the shipping company, and noted that more than one country is often involved, requiring broad communication and cooperation.
 
She added that the South Korean government maintains that, within international norms, freedom of navigation and safety must be guaranteed for all vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, including South Korean ships, and said talks are underway based on that position.
 
According to foreign media reports, a Japanese tanker was confirmed to have transited the Strait of Hormuz on the morning of April 28 local time.