Korea presses Iran on safe passage in Hormuz

Mar 24, 2026, 09:38 am

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Foreign Minister Cho Hyun speaks during a parliamentary session. / Asia Today reporter Lee Byung-hwa

South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun held a phone call on March 23 with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, urging measures to ensure safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

According to the Foreign Ministry, Cho expressed deep concern that the escalating situation in the Middle East is affecting not only the region but also global security and the economy. He called on Iran to help guarantee maritime safety in the Strait of Hormuz and to contribute to stabilizing global energy supply.

The ministry stated that Cho also urged Iran to halt attacks on civilians and civilian facilities in Gulf countries and to take steps toward de-escalation. He further requested special attention and support to ensure the safety of South Korean nationals in Iran, as well as safety measures for vessels of various nationalities—including Korean ships—anchored in the Strait of Hormuz.

In response, Araghchi explained Iran’s position on the current Middle East situation. The Foreign Ministry did not disclose whether Iran accepted Cho’s requests, stating only that both sides agreed to continue communication on the matter.

Meanwhile, the ministry held a meeting of the Overseas Nationals Protection Task Force, chaired by Vice Foreign Minister Kim Jin-a, to discuss measures for ensuring the safety of South Korean citizens, including expatriates working for companies in the Middle East.

Kim warned of the possibility of U.S. strikes on power plants in Iran and instructed officials to closely monitor energy-related facilities in the region, identify the status of Korean nationals and businesses, and issue safety advisories while strongly recommending evacuation or departure if necessary.

In line with these efforts, the South Korean Embassy in Iraq said around 20 Korean nationals, including expatriate workers, are expected to evacuate to nearby countries on March 23 and 24. The embassy is coordinating with Iraqi authorities and border checkpoints, as well as neighboring diplomatic missions, to support their safe relocation.

Kim also noted that the ongoing Middle East tensions could impact South Korea’s domestic energy supply and broader economy, calling for close inter-agency coordination and strengthened preparedness.

#Cho Hyun #Iran #Hormuz Strait #Middle East crisis #maritime safety