Red Sea passage secured
As Iran continues blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a South Korean crude oil tanker has successfully navigated through the Red Sea alternative route and is now safely transporting oil back home.
According to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries on the 6th (as of 9 AM), a Korean-flagged crude carrier was confirmed to be passing through the Red Sea en route to domestic ports. This marks the third successful transit, following earlier passages on the 17th of last month and the 3rd of this month.
The vessel loaded crude oil at Yanbu Port in Saudi Arabia and is traveling via the Red Sea corridor toward Korea.
With the Hormuz Strait closed due to escalating Middle East tensions, the Red Sea has become a critical bypass route. However, this waterway also carries significant risk from Yemeni Houthi rebel attacks, making the situation far from secure.
The maritime ministry operated round-the-clock monitoring systems while the ship traversed the Red Sea, maintaining direct communication channels with both the shipping company and the vessel itself to provide comprehensive safety support.
An official from the ministry stated: “Despite the unstable situation in the Middle East, we have successfully supported the safety of our vessels and crew members. We will continue doing everything possible to ensure stable crude oil supply for the nation.”