South Korea to expand anti-piracy unit operations closer to Strait of Hormuz

South Korea intends to broaden the reach of its anti-piracy Cheonghae unit into waters nearer the Strait of Hormuz, according to a statement from the Defense Ministry. This move was prompted by pressure from US President Donald Trump, who had called for enhanced support in the ongoing conflict in Iran. The government intends to introduce a motion to parliament to extend the Cheonghae unit's deployment in the Middle East, a measure that was set to conclude at the end of 2026, a ministry spokesperson confirmed, aligning with a report by Yonhap News Agency.

Established in the Gulf of Aden in 2009 to safeguard commercial shipping, the Cheonghae unit presently comprises a 4,400-ton-class destroyer, a maritime operations helicopter, up to three rigid-hull inflatable boats, and approximately 300 personnel. The proposed motion to parliament, necessitating approval from President Lee Jae Myung and the cabinet, would extend the unit's jurisdiction to waters surrounding the port of Duqm in Oman, situated roughly 650 kilometers (403 miles) from the strait.

Additional measures under consideration include the deployment of a P-8A maritime patrol aircraft and a personnel increase of 75, as reported by the Korea Herald.

President Trump has been critical of Seoul's perceived lack of support for the war in Iran, leading to the reduction of major joint military exercises between the two nations in the summer. This adjustment has caused unease among the US ally. South Korea's economy is highly dependent on oil imports, with 70% of its supplies originating from the Middle East in 2025, a significant portion of which traverses the Strait of Hormuz, according to the Industry Ministry.

Despite expressing reluctance to deploy military assets in a manner that could entangle the country in conflict, President Lee affirmed that Seoul is evaluating its role in enhancing maritime security within the region.