South Korea Braces for ‘Worst-Case Scenario’ Amid Escalating Middle East Conflict

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Seoul: South Korea is preparing for potential “worst-case scenarios” as the conflict in the Middle East continues to escalate, President Lee Jae Myung said on Tuesday.

Speaking during a cabinet meeting, Lee warned that the crisis is expanding beyond initial expectations and could have a growing impact on citizens and the economy. He stressed the need for long-term contingency planning in case the situation drags on.

The remarks came as the defense ministry confirmed it has not received any formal request from the United States, despite President Donald Trump urging allies to deploy ships to the Strait of Hormuz.

Seoul is now considering a range of emergency measures, including securing alternative oil supplies through diplomatic channels and encouraging energy conservation. Officials are also reviewing steps such as limiting vehicle use based on license plate numbers, tightening export controls, and expanding the operation of nuclear power plants.

In the longer term, the government is looking to accelerate the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources to reduce vulnerability to external shocks.