DistantNews
Shin Won-sik: 'If Military is Sent to Hormuz, it Will Be in the Form of Participation in a Multinational Force'
🇰🇷 South Korea /Conflict & Security

Shin Won-sik: 'If Military is Sent to Hormuz, it Will Be in the Form of Participation in a Multinational Force'

From Dong-A Ilbo · (2d ago) Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • South Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik stated that Seoul has not received a formal request from the U.S. to send troops to the Strait of Hormuz.
  • He indicated that South Korea is open to participating in a multinational force, viewing it as a responsibility of an "accountable member of the international community."
  • Shin Won-sik estimated that deploying forces, including necessary reinforcements for the Cheonghae Unit, would take at least three months from preparation to arrival in the Strait of Hormuz.

South Korea's stance on potential military involvement in the Strait of Hormuz remains cautious yet open, as articulated by Defense Minister Shin Won-sik. While confirming no official request has been made by the United States for troop deployment, Minister Shin emphasized Seoul's willingness to contribute as part of a multinational effort. This position reflects a delicate balancing act, navigating alliance commitments with regional security concerns and domestic considerations.

We have not yet received a specific request from the United States regarding deployment and various resources.

— Shin Won-sikSouth Korean Defense Minister Shin Won-sik responding to a question about U.S. pressure for military support.

The minister's remarks suggest that should South Korea decide to participate, it would likely be within the framework of a broader international coalition. This approach aligns with South Korea's foreign policy objective of being a "responsible member of the international community." The potential involvement is framed not as a unilateral action but as a collective security contribution, particularly in ensuring the freedom of navigation in a critical global waterway.

We believe we must play a role as a responsible member of the international community.

— Shin Won-sikMinister Shin expressing South Korea's willingness to contribute to international security efforts.

Furthermore, Minister Shin provided a realistic timeline for any potential deployment. He indicated that even with existing naval assets like the Cheonghae Unit, enhancements would be necessary, and the entire process, from preparation to arrival, could take upwards of three months. This logistical consideration underscores the seriousness and complexity involved in such a deployment, highlighting that any decision would be preceded by thorough planning and assessment.

We have also expressed our intention to participate. As a responsible member of the international community, we will fulfill our role.

— Shin Won-sikShin confirming South Korea's intent to join international efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

More Stories

From Our Blog