First Country to Recommend Its Ships Avoid Red Sea

South Korea has advised shipping companies to change their routes to avoid passing through the Red Sea to ensure the safety of their vessels and crews amid increasing Houthi attacks on commercial ships. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries held a meeting yesterday in Seoul to review the situation of ships near the Red Sea and to assess the conditions for vessels in the area. The government explained the ongoing developments in the Red Sea, the security measures in place, and listened to the difficulties faced by local companies and their responses. Minister of Oceans Cho Seung-hwan stated, "We request a change in routes until the situation improves for the safety of our ships and citizens," emphasizing that "the government will do everything possible to ensure safe maritime navigation for our vessels through close consultation among the relevant government agencies and the shipping industry."