SEOUL, May 05 (AJP) - The South Korean presidential office Blue House announced Tuesday it is reviewing military participation in a United States-led maritime operation following an explosion on a South Korean cargo ship. The move indicates a shift in Seoul's policy as it evaluates international maritime security against its own domestic legal requirements and peninsula defense needs.
The HMM NAMU, a vessel operated by the flagship carrier HMM, suffered an explosion and fire at 8:40 p.m. (1140 GMT) on Monday near the United Arab Emirates. All 24 crew members, including six South Korean nationals, are confirmed safe, but the ship remains inoperable and requires towing to a nearby port for a forensic inspection.
The Blue House said that the government is considering the military proposal while accounting for the defense posture of the Korean Peninsula and domestic legal procedures. Officials emphasized that the safety of international shipping lanes and the freedom of navigation are core principles that must be protected under international law.
Seoul is currently "noting" the recent public comments made by Donald Trump, who claimed on Truth Social that Iran was responsible for the blast and urged South Korea to join a mission called Project Freedom. The presidential office confirmed that it is maintaining close communication with Washington regarding the stable use of major sea lanes in the region.
The government is also coordinating with relevant nations to conduct a thorough investigation into the cause of the explosion and fire. Officials stated that the safety of South Korean citizens and vessels remains the primary focus while the technical origins of the incident are determined. The Blue House stated it will implement corresponding follow-up measures as soon as the results of the investigation are confirmed.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.
