NSO Chief Won 'Reviewing Contribution to Hormuz Security...No Specific US Request Yet'

National Security Office (NSO) Director Won-sik-rak stated in a press conference in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on July 31 (local time) that the government has not received any specific requests from the United States to dispatch military assets to the Strait of Hormuz. However, he emphasized that freedom of navigation through the strait is a critical interest directly linked to South Korea's economic security amid rising tensions, including Iran's potential blockade, and revealed that the government is reviewing practical ways to contribute from an economic security perspective.

The government has confirmed that while it recognizes the need for National Assembly consent and the formation of public consensus, it is holding discussions with the U.S. side to gauge possible areas of contribution. Director Won is accompanying the President on a tour of three South American nations, and his local remarks suggest that various options, including military responses, are under consideration.

Meanwhile, South Korea has agreed to resume negotiations for the 'South Korea-Mercosur Trade Agreement' with Brazil and Argentina within the year. Brazil, Chile, and Argentina are viewed as key hubs for diversifying South Korea's imports of critical minerals and energy.