South Korea opposes Iran plan for Hormuz shipping fees

South Korea’s Oceans Minister Hwang Jong-woo has opposed Iran’s reported proposal to impose fees on vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz, calling the move a violation of international law.

Speaking at a news conference in the southeastern port city of Busan, Hwang said the Strait of Hormuz is an international shipping route where freedom of navigation must be protected. According to South Korean media reports, he warned that charging tolls for passage through the waterway would effectively amount to restricting access to one of the world’s most critical energy transit corridors.

Hwang noted that unlike the man-made Suez Canal, the Strait of Hormuz consists of international waters governed by international maritime agreements. He stressed that no country should unilaterally impose restrictions or fees on vessels using the route.

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The comments came after Iranian lawmaker Ebrahim Azizi said a proposal regarding the “smart management” of the strait had reached its final review stage in parliament. Iranian officials have indicated that the plan seeks to use Tehran’s geographic position in the strategic waterway as leverage amid ongoing regional tensions.

South Korea also confirmed that it has temporarily rerouted some oil tankers through the Red Sea due to uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Officials said four South Korean vessels have safely returned using alternative routes, while 26 Korean ships carrying 158 sailors remain stranded near the strait.

Regional tensions have intensified since military clashes involving the United States, Israel, and Iran disrupted shipping in the Gulf region earlier this year. The Strait of Hormuz is considered one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints, with a significant share of global oil and gas shipments passing through it daily.

Analysts warn that any prolonged disruption or restrictions in the waterway could impact global energy supplies, shipping costs, and international trade flows.