Korea should join Hormuz mission but avoid combat role, experts say

Experts have suggested that Korea should join the international effort to secure the Strait of Hormuz but should refrain from engaging in combat. The rationale behind this advice is rooted in the need to navigate Korea's alliance with the United States, safeguard its energy and maritime interests, and uphold the principle of freedom of navigation.

The key message from experts is a clear directive to avoid direct military confrontation with Iran, ensure that Korea's contribution does not appear as joining the war, and carefully consider the timing of its involvement.

Min Jeong-hun, a professor at the Korea National Diplomatic Academy, echoed these sentiments, stating that Korea must make some contribution given its relationship with the U.S. However, he emphasized the importance of contributing in a manner that is consistent with Korea's direct interest in maintaining freedom of navigation and stable energy supplies.

This latter point is particularly salient, given that approximately 60 percent to 70 percent of Korea's crude oil imports traverse the strait. Similarly, Jang Ji-hyang, a senior research fellow at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies, echoed this sentiment, suggesting that participation in the mission would align with Korea's strategic interests.