[News Today] “Two flying objects struck ‘Namu’”

[LEAD]

A government joint investigation team looking into the explosion and fire aboard the 'Namu' in the Strait of Hormuz has concluded that it was caused by an external strike. The team found that two unidentified flying objects hit the rear of the vessel, leaving damage about five meters wide.

[REPORT]

An explosion occurred on Korean cargo ship 'Namu' on May 4 while it was anchored at the Strait of Hormuz.

A government joint investigation team sent to the site on May 8 reviewed CCTV, recording devices, and crew testimony and concluded in its initial findings that it was an external attack.

Park Il / Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Unidentified airborne objects struck twice at one-minute intervals, which caused tremors, flames, and smoke on the vessel.

An unidentified aerial object struck the rear ballast tank outer hull, triggering a fire in the engine room.

Then, another flying object hit the same place one minute later, causing the fire to spread rapidly.

The strike caused damage about five meters wide and seven meters deep on the ship's hull.

A photo of the ship’s interior burned in the fire was also released.

The Korean government didn't specify what type of flying object was launched or who was involved.

Park Il / Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The object was seen on CCTV footage, but its origin, type, and size could not be confirmed.

Just before the results were announced, First Vice Foreign Minister Park Yoon-joo summoned Iranian Ambassador to Korea Saeed Koozechi to the ministry building.

When asked whether Korea concluded that the strikes were from the Iranian army, the ministry said it was 'communicating with related governments'.

The government plans to analyze the objects' engine debris collected from the site.

Seoul said it will work with the international community to prevent a recurrence and is also closely reviewing participation in the U.S.-led 'Maritime Freedom Construct'.

Cheong Wa Dae said a National Security Council meeting was held to discuss the Namu incident right after the investigation findings were released.