Seoul: The presidential office has declared that any attacks on civilian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz are unacceptable, following a recent incident involving the South Korean-operated cargo ship HMM Namu. National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac addressed the media, condemning the attack that involved two "unidentified airborne objects" striking the vessel, leading to an explosion and fire.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the government is actively working to uncover the identity of those responsible for the attack and to determine the nature of the objects involved. Wi Sung-lac emphasized that the government will take necessary measures once the investigation provides clarity. He also noted that preliminary assessments suggest a low likelihood of the involvement of sea mines or torpedoes, based on the damage pattern observed.

The government is committed to preventing such incidents from recurring. Wi announced plans to collaborate with other nations and intensify efforts to protect vessels and crew members in the area. Additionally, South Korea will continue its participation in international initiatives aimed at securing the safety of all vessels navigating the strait, including its own.

The HMM Namu, a Panama-flagged cargo vessel operated by the South Korean firm HMM Co., experienced the explosion and fire while it was in the Strait of Hormuz last Monday. Following the incident, a government team conducted an on-site investigation once the ship was towed to a port in Dubai. The attack resulted in a 7-meter-wide rupture in the hull, though fortunately, none of the 24 crew members, including six South Koreans, were injured.