Dozens protest in Seoul against possible deployment to the Strait of Hormuz as the government weighs options amid US pressure.
WEB DESK: Dozens of South Koreans protested in Seoul on Wednesday against any potential military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz, urging the government to stay out of the escalating US-Iran conflict.
The demonstrators gathered near the US embassy and called on Seoul not to participate in what they described as an aggressive war. Protesters carried signs opposing South Korean involvement and chanted against sending young people into the conflict.
An AFP estimate cited by CNA put the number of protesters at about 60.
Seoul has not decided on troop deployment
The protest comes as South Korea considers how it could contribute to maritime security in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Seoul has repeatedly stressed that no final decision has been made to deploy military forces.
The South Korean government recently sent an inspection team to the United Arab Emirates to assess the security situation around the strait. Officials said the mission was intended to gather information and evaluate possible options rather than confirm a military deployment.
South Korea has also said it is discussing possible ways to help maintain freedom of navigation and protect international shipping through the waterway, which is vital to the country’s energy supplies.
US pressure adds to Seoul’s dilemma
The debate has intensified amid pressure from US President Donald Trump for South Korea to play a role in securing the Strait of Hormuz.
The waterway has become a major flashpoint in the escalating US-Iran conflict, with recent attacks involving military assets and commercial shipping sending oil prices higher and disrupting maritime traffic.
For Seoul, the issue carries both security and economic implications. South Korea is heavily dependent on energy supplies moving through the region, while direct military involvement could expose the country to diplomatic and security risks.
Iran warns against South Korean involvement
Iran has warned that South Korean military involvement in the Strait of Hormuz or participation in US operations would be viewed as support for Washington.
Tehran has threatened unspecified “serious consequences” if Seoul becomes involved in the conflict.
The warning has added to the pressure on South Korea as President Lee Jae Myung’s government weighs its options.
Domestic opposition growing
Opposition to potential involvement has been growing among South Korean civic groups and some politicians.
South Korean civil society groups have called for Seoul to reject any military support for the US campaign, including non-combat deployments.
A recent Gallup Korea poll also found that 55% of South Koreans opposed deploying a warship to the Strait of Hormuz, according to Reuters.
Any military deployment would also require parliamentary approval, adding another domestic political hurdle for the government.
For now, Seoul is continuing to assess possible contributions while keeping its options open. No decision to send South Korean troops to the Strait of Hormuz has been announced.
