Lee rules out Korean troop deployment in Iran war

President Lee Jae Myung declared on Friday that South Korea will refrain from deploying troops or military resources in the ongoing war with Iran, emphasizing Seoul's commitment to noninvolvement. During a press conference, President Lee made it clear that there will be no instances of deployment that involve or interfere with the conflict.

He reiterated that Korea will not engage in such troop deployment or the dispatch of military assets. The principle of noninvolvement has been maintained thus far, and it remains unaltered.

Despite this stance, President Lee acknowledged the necessity for South Korea to undertake "minimum activities" to safeguard its commercial vessels, crude oil shipping routes, and the lives and safety of its citizens, similar to actions taken by other nations. He recognized the potential for a blurring of the line between protective activities and direct involvement in the conflict.

In response, the government is contemplating enhancing the operational capabilities of the Cheonghae Unit, which is already positioned in the waters near the Strait of Hormuz to counter threats to ships, shipping routes, and Korean nationals. However, President Lee underscored that South Korea would refrain from sending combat forces.