[News Today] Korea mulls phased role in Hormuz

[LEAD]

The U.S. continues to press Korea to take part in military operations in the Strait of Hormuz. Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back says Seoul will make a "gradual contribution."

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac also says Washington's proposal is "under review."

But both are staying cautious on the specifics.

[REPORT]

The U.S. defense secretary called on Korea to "stand shoulder to shoulder" and join military operations against Iran.

Seoul responded by presenting a four-stage contribution plan.

The plan would gradually increase involvement, from expressing support to sending personnel, sharing intelligence and providing military assets.

Ahn Gyu-back / Minister of National Defense

It was a chance to reaffirm close communication and cooperation.

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But no details were mentioned in regards to how to put the plans into action at each level.

Sending personnel would involve redeploying or adding liaison officers in places such as Bahrain.

For intelligence sharing, Korea is reportedly considering expanding the sharing of navigation information in the Strait of Hormuz.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back told the U.S. that Korea's contribution must follow domestic legal procedures, which is seen as delaying any deployment decision that would require National Assembly approval.

National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac also didn't elaborate on Washington's demand for Seoul's role in normalizing transit in the Strait of Hormuz, saying it is under review.

Wi Sung-lac / National Security Adviser

Like other forms of global cooperation, we are mainly reviewing the U.S.-led Maritime Freedom Construct.

While falling short of U.S. expectations, Korea is trying to show that it is considering the matter.

But Seoul also needs to manage relations with Tehran.

Korea’s contribution plan is expected to be influenced by the progress of the UK- and France-led military operation proposal and the results of the probe into the attack on the HMM Namu.