▲ Presidential spokesperson Kang Yun-jung speaks during a press briefing at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on April 13, 2026. (Yonhap)

S Korea-Mideast crisis

S. Korea closely monitoring developments after U.S. announces blockade of Iranian ports: Cheong Wa Dae

By Kim Eun-jung

SEOUL, April 13 (Yonhap) -- South Korea is closely monitoring the latest developments in the Middle East after the United States announced a blockade of all maritime traffic to and from Iranian ports following failed peace talks, Cheong Wa Dae said Monday.

Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung said the government is keeping a close watch on the situation after President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. Navy would block all ships from entering or leaving the crucial shipping lane, effective at 10 a.m. Eastern time, or 11 p.m. in Korea.

"The stability of international maritime transportation and the freedom of navigation serve the interests of all nations and are protected under international law," Kang told reporters. "We hope for the swift normalization of global maritime logistics networks."

Kang said the government is closely following developments in the Middle East and exploring various measures to ensure security.

Asked whether the U.S. blockade would further strain energy supplies, Kang said the economic ripple effects would persist even if the U.S. and Iran agree to end the war, noting that the government is preparing measures to address the impact.

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