SEJONG — In response to recent geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, South Korea's industry ministry announced plans Monday to assist national exporters through trade financing and other measures. The government's decision follows Iran's missile and drone attacks on Israel, retaliation for an earlier Israeli airstrike on an Iranian diplomatic site in Syria.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the recent conflicts have not directly impacted South Korean export deliveries but could lead to increased logistics costs. Kang detailed that the government's contingency plans would include shipping vouchers and additional financing, tailored to specific scenarios to mitigate potential impacts on exports. Despite the Middle East's minor share in South Korea's export market, Kang emphasized the significant effect of regional instability on fuel and shipping costs.