HARIANEXPRESS – South Korea’s military is engaged in “concrete preparations” to deploy its naval forces to the Strait of Hormuz.
This initiative was reported on Thursday, September 4, 2026, at 11:19 am, with an official from South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense confirming the steps being taken.
“We are making concrete preparations to dispatch naval forces to the Strait of Hormuz,” an official at South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense.
Details of the Military Dispatch
The ongoing process for the deployment includes dispatching P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, an explosive ordnance disposal unit, and a logistics support ship.
Discussions are also underway with relevant countries concerning base ports and operational bases for these forces.
“I understand that discussions regarding base ports and operational bases are also underway with the relevant countries,” a senior military official said, as quoted by SBS.
Approval Process and US Pressure
The deployment of South Korean personnel to the Strait of Hormuz is subject to several stages of approval.
It requires endorsement from the South Korean National Security Council, a Cabinet resolution, and subsequent approval from the National Assembly.
Previously, the South Korean government indicated that such a deployment would only occur after the cessation of hostilities between the United States and Iran.
However, US President Donald Trump publicly criticized Seoul for its reluctance to participate in military operations against Iran, particularly after the US reduced its involvement in joint military exercises with South Korea.
