South Korea opens probe into Strait of Hormuz vessel fire
5/8/2026 12:47:35 PM
South Korea’s Oceans Ministry said the government is examining the cause of a blast on board a Korean-operated vessel, amid doubts it had been attacked in the Strait of Hormuz, Reuters reports.
The ship suffered an explosion and fire in the engine room area on Monday while anchored near the UAE, according to the operating company and South Korean officials.
US President Trump claimed Iran had fired at the South Korean vessel, and urged Seoul to join US-led efforts to secure shipping through the strait. South Korea has yet to respond to the request.
Iran’s embassy in South Korea denied responsibility for the fire, saying it “firmly rejects and categorically denies” allegations that Iranian armed forces were involved in damage to the vessel.
All 24 crew members, including six South Koreans, were reportedly unharmed in the incident.
The Oceans Ministry spokesperson said it was too early to estimate when the probe would conclude.
The ship suffered an explosion and fire in the engine room area on Monday while anchored near the UAE, according to the operating company and South Korean officials.
US President Trump claimed Iran had fired at the South Korean vessel, and urged Seoul to join US-led efforts to secure shipping through the strait. South Korea has yet to respond to the request.
Iran’s embassy in South Korea denied responsibility for the fire, saying it “firmly rejects and categorically denies” allegations that Iranian armed forces were involved in damage to the vessel.
All 24 crew members, including six South Koreans, were reportedly unharmed in the incident.
The Oceans Ministry spokesperson said it was too early to estimate when the probe would conclude.