South Korea Asks Gulf Nations for Stable Energy Supply

South Korea Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol met with envoys from Gulf nations on Friday to secure energy supplies and ensure the safety of Korean vessels navigating near the Strait of Hormuz. The diplomatic push comes as the escalating conflict involving Iran continues to disrupt global shipping routes. During the meeting, Koo requested that ambassadors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) ensure a steady supply of Brent Crude Oil and Natural Gas, as well as naphtha and urea. He also emphasized the critical need for the protection of Korean crews and ships in the volatile waterway. In response to the request, the diplomatic representatives affirmed their commitment to the partnership and the stability of the global energy market. > The envoys said South Korea is a top priority nation and pledged to communicate closely with Seoul to ensure stable supply. Like other major Asian economies, Seoul is heavily dependent on energy imports through the Strait of Hormuz, which handled 20% of the world's oil before the United States and Israel launched military operations on February 28. The subsequent closure of the waterway by Tehran has driven up prices and sparked global recession fears. The GCC member states involved in the discussions include Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. These nations remain pivotal to the energy security of South Korea, which relies on the region for the vast majority of its resource needs.