South Korea will join a multinational Hormuz defense meeting on Tuesday. Army Maj. Gen. Woo Kyung-suk will attend the virtual conference later in the day. Britain and France co-chair the high-level gathering of over 40 countries. Consequently, this Hormuz defense meeting marks the first such ministerial-level event on the strait since the US-Iran conflict began. The blockade has disrupted global energy and fertilizer supplies through the strategic waterway. Seoul must decide its response following the May 4 attack on the HMM Namu cargo vessel.
The virtual Hormuz defense meeting brings together top defense officials from participating nations. Britain and France have led international discussions to stabilize the region. They previously co-hosted a summit and other ministerial-level meetings. Additionally, they chaired working-level sessions of military planners to restore free passage. A South Korean defense ministry official confirmed active engagement in these talks. “We are keeping abreast of the situation and maintaining close communication with relevant countries,” the official said. Therefore, this Hormuz defense meeting aims to translate diplomatic agreements into practical military plans.
Seoul has already determined that two unidentified flying objects caused the explosion on the HMM Namu. The attack occurred on May 4, damaging the South Korean-operated cargo ship. No casualties resulted from the incident, but a large hole appeared in the hull. The government strongly denounced the attack and pledged a thorough investigation. A Cheong Wa Dae official said Monday that Seoul will respond at an appropriate level after further analysis. Consequently, South Korea’s participation in the Hormuz defense meeting signals its willingness to coordinate with allies.
British Defense Secretary John Healey announced the meeting to “restore confidence” for shipping through the strait. He emphasized turning diplomatic agreement into practical military plans. The defense ministry has outlined factors guiding South Korea’s potential involvement. These include international law, safety of sea lanes, domestic legal procedures, and other considerations. The government maintains close communication with the United States, Iran, and Gulf Cooperation Council states. Looking ahead, the Hormuz defense meeting may produce concrete cooperation measures for maritime security. Seoul will announce its final response after completing its investigation. For now, the international community watches how the coalition will ensure safe passage. South Korea’s role remains crucial given its reliance on the strait for energy imports.
