Timing of Passage "Still Uncertain"... Government "Reviewing Role in Reconstruction"

[Anchor]

Although the Strait of Hormuz is set to reopen, immediate movement remains difficult. The threat of mines persists, and it is still unclear which shipping lanes are safe. The 24 South Korean vessels currently in the area are awaiting government guidance while worrying that the waiting period may be further prolonged.

Reporting by Kim Hye-young.

[Reporter]

It is reported that once the United States and Iran officially sign a memorandum of understanding to end the war on June 19, the Strait of Hormuz will be "reopened for free" for 60 days. However, it remains unclear when passage will actually be possible.

It is also unknown whether the existing route through the center of the strait, used before the war, will be utilized, or if the northern route established by the Iranian side will be used instead.

If Iran has laid mines in the strait, it has not been determined who will remove them or how. Above all, there are no set criteria or sequences for how the estimated 1,000 vessels from various countries will exit the strait.

[Park Il / Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: A comprehensive consideration of various factors is necessary, including the overall safety of the strait such as the presence of mines, the speed of the reopening, and available shipping lanes.]

Reuters reported that it could take another 40 to 50 days to return to normal passage due to mine clearance and safety verification operations.

Among shipping companies, there is concern that if this hard-won opportunity for passage is missed, the waiting situation could be further prolonged.

[Shipping Company Official (Voice altered): I heard that they (shipping companies) expressed concerns to the government about what would happen if they missed the timing and the situation became even more protracted.]

A South Korean government official stated, "As the window of opportunity has opened, we are making efforts to ensure our vessels can exit safely within the 60-day period."

Regarding foreign media reports that the U.S. is considering the creation of an Iran reconstruction fund, the official said that while there has been no specific request yet, the government will review taking a constructive and active role in future reconstruction projects.

(Video reporting: Jo Chun-dong, Video editing: Jung Sung-hun, Graphics: Han Heung-soo & Kang Yoon-jung)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.