Iran Warns South Korea Joining Hormuz Operation Would Have ‘Serious Consequences’

Iran’s Foreign Ministry warned South Korea that joining military operations in the Strait of Hormuz could have “serious consequences,” as Seoul reviews whether to deploy forces there. Tehran also urged South Korea not to join military action against Iran under US pressure.

Esmaeil Baghaei, spokesperson for Iran’s Foreign Ministry, made the comments in a post on X on September 7, referring to the long diplomatic relationship between Iran and South Korea.

“The relationship between Iran and the Republic of Korea spans more than 64 years, and bilateral ties have steadily developed on the basis of mutual respect,” Baghaei wrote. “Iran places great importance on its friendly relations with South Korea.”

He went on to say Iran is defending itself against US attacks. “At present, the Iranian people are defending themselves against aggressive acts by the United States and are responding firmly to US war crimes targeting women and children,” he wrote.

Baghaei also warned South Korea over any military role in the region. “Under these circumstances, any country that stations military forces in the Persian Gulf and the Strait of Hormuz or participates in military operations will inevitably be regarded as directly supporting the aggressor, and this will have serious consequences,” he wrote.

He also urged Seoul not to comply with US requests. “A sovereign and responsible country must not yield to US pressure and threats and take part in acts of aggression and horrific crimes against the great Iranian people,” he wrote.

Hong Min-seong, Hankyung.com reporter, mshong@hankyung.com