In Response to Trump's Call for 'Freedom Project' Participation, Blue House Says "Reviewing with Readiness and Domestic Legal Procedures in Mind"

"Active Participation in International Efforts for Global Logistics Stability"

"Close Attention to President Trump's Remarks in This Context"

On May 5, the Blue House announced that, regarding U.S. President Donald Trump's mention of South Korea's need to participate in the so-called 'Freedom Project' related to the Strait of Hormuz, "We are reviewing the matter, taking into consideration the readiness posture on the Korean Peninsula and domestic legal procedures."

On the 29th, as President Lee Jae-myung commuted to the Blue House, marking the official beginning of the Blue House era again after 3 years and 7 months, the phoenix flag was hoisted at the Blue House in Seoul. 2025.12.29 Photo by Cho Yongjun

The Blue House stated, "The government maintains that the safety of international maritime routes and the freedom of navigation are principles that serve the common interests of all nations and must be protected under international law." While expressing agreement with the international principle of freedom of navigation, the Blue House also made it clear that it would take a cautious approach and comprehensively consider factors such as the security situation on the Korean Peninsula, legal procedures, and the protection of Korean vessels and citizens before deciding on participation or the manner of participation.

The Blue House further explained, "The government has been actively participating in various international efforts to quickly stabilize, recover, and normalize the global maritime logistics network." It added, "In this context, we are paying close attention to President Trump's related remarks," and continued, "South Korea and the United States are in continuous and close communication regarding the stable use of major maritime routes, including the Strait of Hormuz."

Previously, President Trump mentioned that Iran had attacked a South Korean cargo ship and urged South Korea to join efforts concerning the movement of vessels within the Strait of Hormuz. The 'Freedom Project' is a U.S.-led initiative to support the movement of civilian ships near the Strait of Hormuz.

Meanwhile, regarding the explosion and fire incident that occurred on a South Korean vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, the Blue House responded, "The government is taking necessary measures to ensure the safety of our crew and vessels, and is also communicating as needed with relevant countries." It added, "We are currently working to determine the cause of the explosion and fire, and will take appropriate follow-up actions as soon as the facts are confirmed."

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