[News Today] “Attack on civilian vessel intolerable”

[LEAD]

With the Korean vessel Namu now confirmed to have been struck in the Strait of Hormuz, Cheong Wa Dae has strongly condemned the attack, saying attacks on civilian vessels can never be justified or tolerated. It says efforts are underway to identify who was behind it, and that response measures will be considered depending on the results of further investigation.

[REPORT]

The exterior of Korean cargo ship HMM Namu showing a hole about 50 centimeters in diameter.

The impact also caused the inside of the vessel to bend to one side.

After an external attack was officially confirmed as the cause of the onboard fire, Cheong Wa Dae strongly condemned the act.

Wi Sung-lac / National Security Adviser

Attack on civilian vessel is unjustifiable and will not be tolerated. We will review a necessary response.

But it said it's difficult to identify who was behind the attack at the moment.

A senior Cheong Wa Dae official said they are in the process of trying to identify the responsible party and will strive to reach a conclusion at the earliest date.

The official added that whether Iran is involved remains 'unknown'.

The official explained the Foreign Ministry summoning the Iranian ambassador the previous day to explain the investigation findings was not a protest but part of a consultation process.

The top office stressed that more investigation is needed regarding information on the flying objects.

Wi Sung-lac / National Security Adviser

Through further probe, we intend to identify the attacker, the type of weapon and physical size.

Cheong Wa Dae said it will work to strengthen the safety of its vessels in nearby straits and continue participating in global efforts to ensure freedom of navigation.

But it maintained a cautious stance on wether to join the U.S.-led Maritime Freedom Construct, saying it is not something that can be linked to that extent.