South Korea is discussing contribution options with France, the United Kingdom and the United States to maintain navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, which has approached the brink of closure following new clashes between the United States and Iran.
An official from the South Korean Presidential Office said Seoul wanted to play a role in international efforts to keep the strait open to maritime traffic. The official said talks were being held with the three countries for this purpose.
Contribution decision will be shaped by national interests
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung held a two-hour meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Tuesday. Lee said any possible contribution by South Korea would be determined in line with the country's national interests and public consensus, rather than external pressure.
The meeting in Paris addressed how South Korea could support international efforts to protect security and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
Form of military contribution remains unclear
The Presidential Office official said the meeting did not constitute a decision to send troops to the Strait of Hormuz. The form South Korea's contribution would take has not yet been clarified, while combat and non-combat options were not discussed in detail.