Half of Korean Ships Stranded in Strait of Hormuz Cleared

According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 13 out of 26 South Korean vessels, which were stranded in the Strait of Hormuz due to the conflict in the Middle East, have successfully passed through the strait. This figure represents half of the total number of stranded ships.

Following the signing of an official memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a ceasefire between the United States and Iran on the 20th, the passage of our vessels has accelerated. A total of 11 ships exited the strait over three days, from the 22nd to the 24th. Currently, 13 South Korean vessels remain in the strait, with 54 crew members aboard. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs anticipates continued news of further passages and stated that the issue of our vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz is largely being resolved, provided no external factors such as a deterioration of the situation in the Strait arise.

Analysis suggests that the high rate of passage for South Korean ships is the result of concentrated diplomatic efforts by the government, including consistent communication with the Iranian government, the government's acceptance of diplomatic protests regarding ships attacked in the strait, and multiple phone calls between Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, as well as the dispatch of a special envoy.

Amidst the volatile geopolitical situation, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) announced on the 23rd (local time) that it is launching a large-scale operation to swiftly evacuate approximately 11,000 sailors and ships unable to leave the Persian Gulf. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs views this as an indication that an environment conducive to the passage of more vessels has been created.