Ahn Cheolsoo Advocates Proactive Deployment to Hormuz: "Should Use It as an Opportunity to Secure Economic and Security Assets"

Calls for Securing Nuclear-Powered Submarines and Reprocessing Rights
But Also Acknowledges Risks Such as Possibility of Armed Conflict

As U.S. President Donald Trump has requested five countries, including South Korea, to dispatch warships to the Strait of Hormuz, the possibility of deploying the Cheonghae Unit is being discussed. In response, the leadership of the People Power Party made it clear early on that "this is an issue for which the consent of the National Assembly is absolutely necessary in accordance with the Constitution and the law." Meanwhile, Assemblyman Ahn Cheolsoo argued that "if South Korea responds passively to the deployment, it could lead to pressure in the economic and trade sectors." He insisted that the situation should be turned into an opportunity to secure strategic security assets by participating proactively.

Ahn Cheol-soo, People Power Party member. Photo by Hyunmin Kim

On March 19, Assemblyman Ahn stated on social media that "the U.S. request for deployment to the Strait of Hormuz marks a turning point for the South Korea-U.S. alliance, evolving from 'dependence' to 'mutual contribution'." He emphasized, "This is an existential issue, with 26 Korean oil tankers and the energy sovereignty of our citizens at stake." He further stressed that "if the Strait of Hormuz is closed, South Korea, as a directly interested party, will inevitably suffer a severe blow to its economy."

He went on to say, "President Trump's diplomacy is a 'package' approach that combines military, economic, and trade elements." He analyzed that "investment pressure, tariffs, and legislative and administrative measures are implemented together, so a passive response to the deployment could lead to pressure in the economic and trade sectors." Furthermore, Assemblyman Ahn argued that the deployment should be used not as a simple act of military participation, but as a strategic bargaining chip. He said, "On the condition of proactive participation, we must obtain explicit commitments for the rapid construction of nuclear-powered submarines, the expansion of uranium enrichment, and the right to reprocess spent nuclear fuel."

He also acknowledged the risks, such as the possibility of armed conflict. He stated, "There are numerous factors to consider, including the level of armament of the Cheonghae Unit, ratification by the National Assembly, and the duration of the deployment." However, he added, "We cannot hesitate at this test of alliance by relying solely on the uncertain U.S. nuclear umbrella." He continued, "It is time to go beyond mere rhetoric about self-reliant defense and move toward 'autonomous security,' securing military means and physical capabilities."

Amidst this, Assemblyman Ahn has recently been strengthening his policy messages, mainly in the fields of security and science and technology. He has been emphasizing artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor competitiveness, and the fostering of advanced industries, while also taking an active stance on security issues such as the introduction of nuclear submarines and enhancing the effectiveness of extended deterrence. In particular, by continuing to argue that the role of the South Korea-U.S. alliance should be redefined around 'mutual contribution,' he is increasing his presence on diplomatic and security issues.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.