The South Korean cargo vessel Namu, operated by HMM, is expected to exit the Strait of Hormuz in mid-July following repairs to damage sustained during an attack in May.
The bulk carrier's hull was struck near the stern in the incident. Seoul had previously stated in late May that the attack likely involved an Iranian anti-ship missile, leading to the summoning of the Iranian ambassador to protest the findings of their investigation. However, Iran's ambassador to South Korea, Saeed Koozechi, denied Tehran's involvement, according to Yonhap news agency. South Korea later acknowledged that it could not definitively determine the perpetrator or the intentionality of the attack.
Nam Jae-heon, vice oceans minister, informed a press briefing on Wednesday that two vessels, including the Namu, are currently in the Strait of Hormuz with 35 crew members aboard. He also noted that 21 South Korean-operated vessels have successfully navigated the strait since the implementation of a ceasefire between Washington and Tehran two weeks prior.
A ministry official confirmed during the briefing that HMM is covering the costs of the repairs. A company spokesperson also verified this to Reuters, adding that HMM intends to file a claim with its insurance provider. When questioned about whether South Korea might seek compensation from Iran or the United States for the repairs, Nam indicated that such a review could be considered at a later stage, without providing further details.
