South Korea is reportedly reviewing a possible deployment of military assets to the Strait of Hormuz, according to domestic media reports. These reports, published on Thursday and Friday, cite unnamed government and military sources and suggest preparations are underway, with an intention to seek parliamentary approval for a new deployment.
However, the presidential office has pushed back against these claims, stating that such reports are "different from the facts" and that "nothing related to the matter has been decided." The office did confirm that a review of the matter is "continuing."
The reports indicate that assets under consideration include a P-8 Poseidon aircraft, which would mark South Korea's first overseas deployment of a maritime patrol aircraft, and a naval logistics support ship. One outlet, Seoul Broadcasting System, also reported that an explosive ordnance disposal team from the navy’s underwater demolition unit was part of the package.
Any new deployment would typically require review by the national security council, a cabinet resolution, and approval from the national assembly. South Korea's defence minister, Ahn Gyu-back, previously stated in March that parliamentary consent would be necessary for any deployment to the Strait of Hormuz due to the mission's difference from an existing anti-piracy mandate.
The reports emerge amid growing strains in the US-South Korea alliance, with Donald Trump reportedly complaining about Seoul's reluctance to provide support regarding Iran.