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

Amid ongoing calls from the United States for increased contributions, there is growing discussion about the possibility of dispatching troops to the Strait of Hormuz. It has been reported that the Ministry of National Defense has sent a field investigation team to assess the local circumstances in the Strait of Hormuz amid the Middle East war. Nonetheless, the Ministry clarified that the investigation was not based on an actual troop deployment plan.

Ministry of National Defense. Yonhap News Agency

On September 8, the Ministry of National Defense stated, "We have dispatched a field investigation team to the Strait of Hormuz to assess the local situation," adding, "The team is there to assess local conditions, including the regional political landscape and security situation." The Ministry further explained, "This investigation is not being conducted on the premise of an actual troop deployment. No decisions have been made regarding a deployment."

The field investigation team departed for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) over the past weekend and is currently assessing local conditions and operational circumstances. They are expected to return as early as this week.

The Ministry of National Defense also dismissed reports claiming that the United States requested the dispatch of Korean assets to the Strait of Hormuz with a specific deadline, stating that "these reports are not true."

Since the outbreak of war with Iran, the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly demanded that allies, including South Korea, take on greater roles in the Strait of Hormuz. On August 30, President Trump specifically mentioned South Korea, stating, "When I asked, 'Can you help a little regarding Iran?' they answered, 'It would be better not to.' I will remember this." The White House also stated on September 6 that it is "still waiting for South Korea to commit resources in the region" with regard to South Korea's review of ways to contribute to the Strait of Hormuz.

The government has consistently stated that it is reviewing practical ways to contribute to ensuring freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. However, no decisions regarding troop deployment or specific methods have been made as of yet.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs also reaffirmed on the same day that no concrete contribution plan has been decided. In a meeting with reporters, a government official stated that they are "continuing to communicate with the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and other stakeholders" regarding initiatives in the Strait of Hormuz led by the United States or other relevant parties. The official added, "(No decisions have been made) regarding troop deployment or other measures."

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