Key facts
- South Korea will not deploy troops to the Middle East.
- South Korea may expand its role in safeguarding the Strait of Hormuz.
- The country is reviewing ways to strengthen its involvement in the Strait of Hormuz.
South Korea has ruled out deploying troops to the Middle East, according to President Lee Jae Myung. However, the country is considering an expanded role in safeguarding navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. The president indicated that while troop deployment for direct involvement in overseas conflicts is off the table, South Korea is exploring options to enhance its contribution to maritime security in the critical waterway.