Two South Korean-Operated Ships Exit Strait of Hormuz; Destinations are Third Countries

Two South Korean-operated vessels have successfully navigated out of the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. The ministry confirmed on Sunday that the two ships, which had been waiting within the strait, have passed through and are continuing their voyages. However, it was clarified that neither vessel had any South Korean crew members aboard, and their destinations are third countries, not South Korea.

“

Our two ships operated by our shipping companies that were waiting inside the Strait of Hormuz have passed through the strait and are on normal voyages.

The ministry stated that specific details about the ships, including their names and operators, cannot be disclosed to ensure the safety of the crew and the shipping companies. This development reduces the number of South Korean-flagged vessels waiting in the strait from 24 to 22. Currently, a total of 135 sailors remain in the strait, comprising 102 crew members on South Korean ships and 33 on foreign vessels.

This marks the third instance of South Korean-operated ships exiting the Strait of Hormuz since tensions escalated. Previously, the ultra-large crude carrier Universal Winner, owned by HMM, passed through on May 20 and arrived in Ulsan on June 10. Another vessel, an LNG carrier operated by SK Shipping, exited the strait on June 11. The latter ship was able to pass through before the announcement of a US-Iran agreement, following independent discussions between its Pakistani charterer and Iranian authorities.

“

We are supporting safe navigation through the strait by providing information and real-time monitoring.

The situation remains tense as US-Iran negotiations, mediated by Qatar and Pakistan, have hit a stalemate. A recent meeting in Switzerland on June 21 reportedly ended abruptly when Iran withdrew from the talks due to controversy surrounding the cessation of hostilities on the Lebanon front and President Trump's remarks.

“

Considering the safety of the crew and the position of the shipping companies, specific information such as details of the vessels and shipping companies cannot be disclosed.