The Blue House considers various options for deployment to the Strait of Hormuz

The Blue House said it is reviewing several options regarding a plan to send military forces to the Strait of Hormuz. However, it also stated that it would proceed only within a scope that does not place a major burden on readiness for the Korean Peninsula. A Blue House official told reporters on the 4th that the government has been discussing measures that would practically contribute to stability in the Strait of Hormuz, and explained that the scope includes noncombat missions. It was reported that the government is considering roles such as maritime surveillance and reconnaissance, mine clearing, and logistics support, rather than direct combat participation, while aligning with the U.S. request. The government is said to have already conveyed to the U.S. its intention to dispatch noncombat assets such as a naval logistics support ship and a maritime patrol aircraft. It is currently in the stage of continuing consultations with the U.S., France, the U.K., and others, and the timing and scope of the deployment have not yet been decided. For the deployment to become a reality, domestic procedures such as National Assembly consent are required. As opinions are also divided within the ruling bloc, further discussions are expected before any final decision is made.