S. Korea Urges Safe Shipping Transit in Strait of Hormuz Talks with Iran

(MENAFN) South Korea’s special envoy to Iran has called for Tehran’s cooperation to guarantee the safe and rapid passage of all vessels, including South Korean ships, through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a statement from the Foreign Ministry on Thursday.

During a meeting in Tehran with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, envoy Chung Byung-ha raised concerns over maritime safety and stressed the need for stable transit conditions in the strategic waterway.

Chung also expressed hope that Iran–US negotiations could resume, saying this could contribute to restoring peace and stability in the region, as stated by reports. He further emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations between Seoul and Tehran.

According to South Korean authorities, 26 ships linked to South Korea and 173 crew members are currently stranded in the Strait of Hormuz area.

The Strait is one of the world’s most critical shipping routes, responsible for a significant share of global oil and liquefied natural gas transport.

South Korea has reportedly been coordinating with Iran and neighboring countries to ensure the safety of vessels and personnel, while sharing relevant information with authorities.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran has “taken measures under international law to defend its security and interests; responsibility for consequences lies with the aggressors,” according to a government statement shared on social media.

Separately, South Korea has recently approved humanitarian assistance worth $500,000 for Iran, as tensions remain elevated despite a ceasefire between the United States and Iran.

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