Two South Korean ships successfully exit Strait of Hormuz; three remain
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Two South Korean ships have successfully passed through the Strait of Hormuz, resuming normal voyages.
- These ships, carrying four South Korean sailors, received transit permission from Iranian authorities based on a previously signed memorandum of understanding.
- Three South Korean ships and a total of 43 South Korean sailors remain in the vicinity of the Strait of Hormuz, with the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries providing support for safe navigation.
Two South Korean vessels that had been waiting near the Strait of Hormuz have successfully navigated the waterway and resumed their normal voyages, according to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. These ships are carrying a total of four South Korean crew members and are en route to third countries.
The successful passage was reportedly granted by Iranian authorities based on a memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between South Korea and Iran. This development comes amid heightened tensions in the region, making navigation through the strategic Strait of Hormuz a point of concern for international shipping.
Currently, three South Korean ships remain in the inner waters of the Strait of Hormuz. In total, 43 South Korean nationals are still in the area, including 13 on South Korean vessels and 30 on foreign-flagged ships. The ministry stated that it is providing diplomatic support and real-time monitoring to ensure the safe navigation of these remaining vessels.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries emphasized its commitment to supporting the safe passage of the remaining three South Korean ships. This includes providing up-to-date information and monitoring their movements to assist shipping companies in their operational planning and ensure safe transit through the Strait.
The government has provided diplomatic efforts for the passage of the ships and supported safe navigation by providing real-time monitoring and navigation information while the ships are passing through. We will continue to support the establishment of operational plans and safe passage for the three South Korean ships waiting in the inner waters of the strait by providing information on navigation trends.
Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.