G7 summit in Evian-les-Bains,France, will put South Korea under spotlight over its role in securing Strait of Hormuz. This waterway links Persian Gulf to Gulf of Oman,a lifeline for global energy. With Ukraine and Iran conflicts front and center, South Korea could face heat to step up maritime security efforts.
Some think summit may push South Korea to join initiatives ensuring navigation freedom through strait. Could mean deploying naval mine-sweeping capabilities. Diplomatic and logistical headaches for Seoul. In March,Trump called on South Korea and others relying on strait to send ships to keep it open. After that,U.S . floated Maritime Freedom Construct to boost coordination and info-sharing among allies focused on region's maritime security.
South Korea's also been in talks about a U.K.- and France-led coalition, adding layers to its situation. “South Korea is likely to come under renewed pressure to take part in international maritime initiatives,” said Doo Jin-ho,director of Eurasia Research Centre at Korea Research Institute for National Strategy. As President Lee Jae Myung gears up for summit, balancing diplomatic duties and military risks in Gulf will be tricky for his administration…
