South Korea prepares Hormuz military deployment, media reports say

Seoul is apparently gearing up to send military resources to the Strait of Hormuz to ensure the freedom of navigation, according to media accounts circulating on Thursday. The reports, based on statements from government and military officials, suggest that South Korea plans to finalize the necessary procedures to seek parliamentary approval for the deployment before the year's end. This process includes submitting a consent motion to the parliament after cabinet review.

Government officials are reportedly considering various options for the deployment, which could include a maritime patrol aircraft, a logistics support vessel, or a mine detection and clearance unit. Discussions on the scale and nature of South Korea's potential contribution to the mission have reportedly been held with countries such as the United States, Britain, and France.

However, the presidential Blue House in South Korea has denied these reports, stating that Seoul has only been discussing practical ways to contribute to maintaining freedom of navigation in the strait. This clarification contradicts the earlier claims of a confirmed deployment. Additionally, U.S. President Donald Trump had previously mentioned on social media that he had reduced the scale of U.S.-South Korea joint military exercises due to South Korea's unwillingness to assist the U.S. in its conflict with Iran.