Energy – South Korean Ships Resume Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz
Energy – Two more South Korean-linked commercial vessels have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, marking continued progress after months of disruption caused by tensions in the Middle East.
Additional South Korean Ships Resume Voyages
Two more vessels operated by South Korean shipping companies have safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz after being unable to leave the strategic waterway for several months due to regional conflict. According to South Korea’s oceans ministry, the ships have now resumed normal navigation following the reopening of maritime routes.
The vessels were among 26 ships connected to South Korea that had remained stranded after shipping traffic was severely affected earlier this year when Iran restricted movement through the narrow passage during heightened military tensions involving the United States and Israel.
Maritime Routes Gradually Return to Normal
The ministry stated that the first two South Korean-related ships managed to leave the strait earlier with support from Iranian authorities. Following the ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and Iran earlier this month, the remaining vessels have been departing gradually as navigation conditions continue to improve.
Despite the latest development, three South Korea-linked vessels are still waiting in the Strait of Hormuz. Among them is the HMM Namu, which suffered damage during missile attacks linked to the regional conflict. The ship is currently undergoing repair work at a port in Dubai before it can safely resume operations.
Crew Members Continue to Await Safe Departure
Officials confirmed that four South Korean crew members were aboard the two vessels that recently cleared the waterway. Although the ships are not heading to South Korea, their successful transit is being viewed as another positive step in restoring commercial shipping across the region.
The oceans ministry also reported that 43 South Korean nationals remain aboard vessels that are still affected by the situation. This figure includes crew members serving on both South Korean-owned ships and foreign-flagged commercial vessels operating in the area.
Government Maintains Diplomatic Support
South Korean authorities said they have been closely monitoring developments in real time while working alongside the foreign ministry to provide diplomatic coordination and navigational assistance. The government noted that these efforts have helped ensure the safe movement of commercial vessels through one of the world’s busiest energy shipping corridors.
Officials added that monitoring will continue until every remaining South Korean-linked vessel and crew member can safely complete their journey.
South Korea Adjusts Fuel Measures as Oil Prices Ease
Separately, the South Korean government announced new economic measures after global crude oil prices showed signs of moderation. Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol said fuel price ceilings were lowered on Friday to reflect the recent decline in international oil markets.
He also confirmed that electricity and natural gas charges will remain unchanged during the second half of the year as part of broader efforts to keep inflation under control. According to the minister, emergency economic measures introduced during the period of heightened regional instability will be adjusted gradually while authorities continue to assess both developments in the Middle East and domestic economic conditions