On Monday, National Security Advisor Wi Sung-lac stated regarding the Middle East situation that as President Lee Jae Myung mentioned on social media, there’s no need for excessive concern.
Wi made this statement during a briefing at the press center for the visiting press corps in Singapore, acknowledging the recent tensions in the Middle East while reassuring the public.
The previous day, President Lee emphasized on X (formerly Twitter) that the Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Kim Min-seok, is thoroughly prepared across all sectors, including the real economy, finance, and national security.
He also urged citizens to remain calm, enjoy daily life, and focus on their livelihoods, adding that the Presidential Office, under Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik, is maintaining an emergency response system to prepare for all possible scenarios.
Advisor Wi further stated that the government is fully prepared across all sectors, and the Presidential Office is maintaining an emergency response system. He’s regularly monitoring the situation and reporting to the President.
Tensions are escalating among anti-U.S. nations due to the military conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran. The Donald Trump administration’s willingness to use military force, as seen in Venezuela and now potentially elsewhere, has caught North Korea’s attention.
A senior Blue House official cautioned that the government is still monitoring the situation. They’re not drawing conclusions or making predictions yet, as the Iran situation is still developing.
The official added that the situation is likely to evolve, with new variables emerging. While North Korea has issued initial statements, it’s difficult to assess based solely on those. It must continue to closely monitor developments.
The senior official noted that despite efforts to ease inter-Korean tensions, North Korea’s recent party congress shows their stance remains unchanged and hardline. It’ll continue working to reduce tensions, but must calibrate our approach based on North Korea’s reactions.
The Blue House is closely monitoring the impact on the real economy, including oil prices, exchange rates, and trade. While relevant ministries are responding to specific issues, the Blue House is coordinating efforts and making final policy decisions.
A senior Blue House official stated that they’re closely watching oil prices, which have risen slightly but are now stabilizing. The situation is still unfolding. Ministries are preparing measures, overseen by the Prime Minister. As developments occur, relevant ministries will provide detailed updates.
He continued that energy supply, including crude oil, is being monitored by the Ministry of Industry and other departments, with daily checks led by the Prime Minister. The President is receiving the same information as the Prime Minister.
The official emphasized that this situation is still developing, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz and potential blockades. They’re assessing the situation and preparing for various scenarios.