Ministry of National Defense Dispatches Survey Team to UAE: "Assessing Hormuz, Not Premised on Deployment"

Amid ongoing requests from the United States for South Korea to contribute to security efforts, particularly with regard to a potential troop deployment to the Strait of Hormuz, the Ministry of National Defense has reportedly dispatched an on-site survey team to assess local conditions following the outbreak of the Middle East war. However, the ministry stated that this investigation is not being conducted with the premise of actual troop deployment.

Ministry of National Defense. Yonhap News Agency

On September 8, the Ministry of National Defense said, "We have sent an on-site survey team to the Strait of Hormuz to assess the current situation there," adding, "The purpose of the team is to assess the regional dynamics and the security situation." The ministry further clarified, "This investigation is not being carried out on the basis that troops will be sent, and no decisions have been made regarding any deployment."

The survey team reportedly departed for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the past weekend and is currently examining the local situation and operational conditions. It is expected that the team could return to Korea as early as later this week.

The Ministry of National Defense also denied some media reports claiming that the United States requested the deployment of South Korean assets to the Strait of Hormuz and set a specific deadline, stating, "That is not true."

Following the outbreak of war with Iran, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly urged allies, including South Korea, to expand their roles in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump commented on August 30, specifically mentioning Korea: "When I asked if they could help a little regarding Iran, they replied that it would be better not to. I will remember that." The White House also stated on September 6, regarding South Korea's review of possible contributions to the Strait of Hormuz, "We are still waiting for Korea to commit resources to the region."

The South Korean government has maintained the position that it is considering practical contributions to securing freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. However, as of now, neither the possibility nor the specific means of troop deployment has been decided.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reiterated on the same day that no concrete contribution plan has yet been determined. When meeting with reporters, an official from the ministry said that they are continuing to communicate with the U.S., as well as with the UK and France—each of which is pursuing its own initiative related to the Strait of Hormuz. The official added, "Nothing has been decided yet, including the possibility of deployment."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.