A joint government investigation has confirmed that two unidentified projectiles struck the exterior of HMM's Namoo vessel, causing a fire. If the projectiles are later confirmed to be of Iranian origin, the incident is expected to have significant repercussions.
"At around 3:30 p.m. local time on the 4th, two unidentified projectiles struck the outer plating of the ballast water tank on the port side of the Namoo's stern at intervals of about one minute," Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Park Il said at a briefing Friday. "Flames and smoke subsequently broke out, and the port-side stern plating was damaged over an area 5 meters wide and 7 meters deep." The government also released three photographs of the damaged Namoo.
The government had previously said the fire was "unlikely to have been caused by an attack," but a review of CCTV footage and on-site investigation determined that an external strike was the cause. However, the specific type of projectile — whether drone, missile or otherwise — has not yet been identified.
Further investigation is also needed to determine who launched the two projectiles and whether the Namoo was the intended target. "The projectiles were captured on CCTV footage, but there are limitations in verifying who launched them and the exact model and size," Park said. "We plan to further analyze the projectile engine debris and other materials recovered from the scene."
The government has so far maintained a cautious stance on the cause of the Namoo fire, but the findings of the additional investigation could influence its response strategy in the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, Iranian Ambassador to South Korea Saeed Koozechi visited the Foreign Ministry building in Jongno-gu, Seoul, just before the government announced its investigation results, and met with First Vice Minister Park Yoon-joo. "The ambassador visited the Foreign Ministry to be briefed on the findings of our government's investigation," Park said. "Based on the facts confirmed so far, we are communicating with relevant countries." He added, "We are also closely reviewing the issue of freedom of navigation and participation in U.S.-led initiatives, including the Maritime Freedom Campaign (MFC)."
