South Korea to deploy military mission to help keep Hormuz open

South Korea pledges maritime assistance to safeguard Strait of Hormuz. The US-Iran war has caused disruptions in shipping through the crucial maritime chokepoint, which typically handles about a fifth of global oil supplies. In response, Seoul's defence ministry plans to deploy maritime patrol aircraft, an explosive ordnance disposal team, and other naval assets to waters near the Strait of Hormuz.

This mission aims to protect commercial vessels and energy supplies, while strictly avoiding any combat or targeting of Iranian territory. The enhancement of Seoul's Cheonghae anti-piracy naval unit will require parliamentary approval but is strictly for non-combat purposes, operating independently from allied forces. President Lee Jae Myung has emphasized South Korea's commitment to non-involvement in the Iran war, reaffirming this stance in September.