South Korean Vessels Through Hormuz Strait Reach 23, Maritime Trade Sees Gradual Recovery.

The South Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries recently announced that two more vessels have successfully traversed the Strait of Hormuz, bringing the total number of South Korean vessels to pass through the strait to 23. This marks a gradual resumption of maritime activities by South Korean vessels in the region, which had been severely impacted by war and had resulted in long-term disruptions to maritime operations. Additionally, the South Korean Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries revealed that three South Korean-operated vessels remain in the Persian Gulf region, including the HMM Namu, a Panama-flagged vessel that experienced an explosion on May 4.

As a country located in the southern half of the Korean Peninsula, bordering North Korea via the Korean Demilitarized Zone, the Yellow Sea to the west, and the East Sea to the east, South Korea claims to be the only legitimate government for the entire peninsula and nearby islands. With a population of approximately 52 million, half of whom reside in the Seoul metropolitan area, the world's ninth-largest metropolitan area, other major cities in South Korea include Busan, Daegu, and Incheon. South Korea's history dates back to the early Paleolithic era, with China's historical records also mentioning the existence of a Korean kingdom as far back as the 7th century BC.

In the mid-1st century, various powers on the Korean Peninsula gradually unified, forming the three opposing kingdoms of Goguryeo, Baekje, and Silla. Silla ultimately unified most of the peninsula in the 7th century AD. Subsequently, the Goryeo Dynasty (918-1392) and the Joseon Dynasty (1392-1897) successively ruled South Korea, laying the foundation for modern Korea's identity and culture. In modern history, South Korea suffered under Japanese colonial rule but gained independence following the Second World War and has since become a rapidly developing economic and democratic country.

In recent years, South Korea has played an increasingly important role in international politics and economics, particularly in the Asian region. As a major trading nation, South Korea's economic development has a significant impact on the global economy. Additionally, South Korea has played a crucial role in regional security issues, particularly in the issue of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula. South Korea's relations with neighboring countries, including China, the United States, and Japan, have also continued to develop.

In the context of maritime recovery in the Strait of Hormuz, South Korea's role has been particularly significant. As a major maritime nation, South Korean vessels occupy a substantial proportion of global maritime traffic. The Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway connecting the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, is crucial for the global transportation of oil and cargo. The safety and resumption of South Korean vessels' maritime activities not only have significant implications for South Korea's economic development but also have a substantial impact on global maritime and energy supply.

For Taiwan, South Korea's importance in the Asian region and its role in international politics and economics are valuable references. As a major trading nation and a significant player in regional security, Taiwan needs to pay attention to South Korea's role and influence in the region. At the same time, Taiwan can learn from South Korea's experiences and practices in maritime and energy supply, providing important references for its own economic development and regional security. Furthermore, cooperation and communication between South Korea and Taiwan on regional security issues, particularly in the issue of peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula, are also of great importance.