Home > National > Diplomacy

Korean special envoy meets Iran's foreign minister amid tensions in Middle East

Published: 23 Apr. 2026, 15:26

This photo, released by Iran's foreign ministry on April 23, shows Korea's special envoy, Chung Byung-ha, left, meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran. [YONHAP]

Korea's special envoy to Iran has met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Tehran, an Iranian social media post showed on Thursday, as Seoul seeks to ensure the safety of its vessels and seafarers stranded in the Strait of Hormuz amid tensions in the Middle East.

Chung Byung-ha, the special envoy for Korea's foreign minister, expressed hope in his meeting with Araghchi that diplomatic efforts would bring an end to the conflict and lead to peace and stability in the region, according to a Telegram post by Iran's foreign ministry.

Chung also noted the importance of developing bilateral relations between Seoul and Tehran.

Echoing Chung's remark on their ties, Araghchi expressed Iran's readiness to cooperate in that regard.

Regarding Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, Araghchi defended the measure as an effort to safeguard its national security and interests, saying that “responsibility for any resulting consequences lies with the parties carrying out the aggression,” read the post.

Twenty-six Korea-related ships and 173 Korean crew members remain stranded in the vital waterway blocked by both Iran and the United States.

Korea has been in talks with Iran and neighboring countries to ensure their safety, sharing details of the vessels and crew with relevant parties, including Iran and the United States.

Yonhap