South Korean authorities announced Tuesday they will launch a full investigation into an explosion and fire that damaged a cargo vessel in the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, following accusations from President Donald Trump that Iran was responsible for attacking the ship.
Officials from Seoul’s Foreign Ministry stated that determining the precise cause of the incident will require towing the vessel to port for a comprehensive damage evaluation. “The exact cause of the accident would be figured out after the vessel is towed and its damage is assessed,” the ministry declared in an official statement.
The cargo ship HMM Namu, which flies under a Panamanian flag but operates under South Korean company HMM, was unloaded and stationary when Monday’s explosion occurred. Ministry officials confirmed no crew members were injured and firefighting efforts successfully contained the blaze.
All 24 sailors remained aboard the 35,000-ton commercial vessel following the incident, according to an HMM company representative. The fire originated within the ship’s engine compartment, and security camera recordings documented the successful extinguishing of the flames, the spokesperson explained.
Maritime security firm Vanguard indicated that investigators will examine multiple potential causes, including the possibility of a deliberate assault, contact with a floating naval mine, or collision with other external debris.
Following the maritime emergency, South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries issued advisories Tuesday directing Korean ships operating in the region to relocate to more secure waters. Officials maintained ongoing communication with shipping companies and vessels currently stuck in the area.
Government records show 26 South Korean-registered ships remain stranded throughout the Strait of Hormuz region.
President Trump used his Truth Social platform to claim Iran had opened fire on the vessel and additional targets during a U.S. military operation aimed at reopening the strait for commercial shipping. He indicated this might be an appropriate moment for South Korea to participate in his proposed initiative to escort stranded vessels through the waterway, which typically handles approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas transportation.
South Korean government agencies, including the Foreign Ministry, Defense Ministry, and presidential administration, have not yet provided responses to inquiries about Trump’s social media statements.
Previously, South Korea indicated it would thoughtfully evaluate Trump’s request for nations to contribute naval vessels to a protective coalition ensuring secure transit through the strait, while emphasizing that such participation would need parliamentary authorization.
