South Korea Envoy Presses Iran to Free 26 Stranded Ships
Envoy Chung Byung-ha also voiced hope that stalled Iran-US peace negotiations would resume, stressing that renewed dialogue is essential to restoring stability across the region, media reported.
Chung further underscored the value of strengthening bilateral ties between Seoul and Tehran, framing diplomacy as the preferred path forward amid the ongoing crisis.
The stakes are considerable: 26 South Korea-linked vessels and 173 South Korean crew members remain trapped in the strait, unable to transit freely as regional tensions persist despite a fragile ceasefire between the US and Iran.
The Strait of Hormuz is among the world's most critical energy corridors, channeling an estimated 20–30% of global liquefied natural gas and oil flows — making any prolonged disruption a serious threat to international markets.
Seoul has maintained active contact with Iranian authorities and neighboring governments to secure the safety of its stranded vessels and personnel, sharing relevant operational details with officials involved.
Araghchi offered a measured but firm response, stating that Iran has "taken measures under international law to defend its security and interests; responsibility for consequences lies with the aggressors," according to a government statement posted on social media.
South Korea earlier this month pledged $500,000 in humanitarian aid to Iran as a goodwill gesture amid sustained tensions, even as the ceasefire remains in effect. Seoul, however, has firmly ruled out paying any transit fees to secure the release of its stranded fleet, stating it has "no plans at this stage" to pay a toll to Iran in order to get its stranded ships out of the strait.
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