South Korea hints at Hormuz help, but no troop decision yet

South Korea has not yet decided whether to send troops to the Strait of Hormuz, a senior presidential official said Monday, adding that Seoul is considering ways to contribute without weakening its military readiness. “We are thinking that we may be able to make contributions within the scope that does not compromise our readiness posture,” the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. The statement follows growing international concern over shipping safety in the strategic waterway, through which about a fifth of global oil passes. Tensions have risen after recent attacks on tankers and heightened U.S.-Iran confrontation. Seoul relies heavily on Middle Eastern oil imports and has been under U.S. pressure to join a maritime security mission in the region. However, South Korea also maintains economic ties with Iran and must weigh domestic political sensitivities. The official did not specify what form a contribution might take, leaving open options such as logistical support, intelligence sharing, or a limited naval presence. No timeline for a final decision was given.