The Defense Ministry reaffirmed its stance of not engaging in military conflict amid controversy over the potential expansion of the Cheonghae Unit's operational area, which could effectively lead to a deployment near the Hormuz Strait.
According to reports from Yonhap News and others on October 16, the ministry stated in a press release to reporters that "the government maintains a principled position of not intervening in war or combat under any circumstances, while reviewing its role in protecting our citizens and safeguarding our economic interests. No decisions have been made to date."
The controversy arose after it was revealed that the Defense Ministry is considering expanding the Cheonghae Unit's operational area from the Aden Gulf to the Oman Gulf as part of a proposal to extend its deployment period, which will require parliamentary approval.
The Oman Gulf is connected to the Hormuz Strait, and if the operational area is expanded, the Cheonghae Unit's activities could extend near the Hormuz Strait. Discussions have also emerged regarding the potential deployment of additional assets, such as maritime patrol aircraft, raising concerns that the ministry might be seeking to expand its operational scope in the Hormuz area without a formal deployment process.
The Cheonghae Unit has been tasked with protecting the safety of South Korean citizens and vessels since its initial deployment to the Aden Gulf in 2009, focusing on anti-piracy operations and escort missions.
However, the Defense Ministry maintains that no specific changes to the Cheonghae Unit's operational area or enhancements to its capabilities have been finalized.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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