South Korean Cargo Ship Damaged by Suspected Drone Strikes in Strait of Hormuz

The South Korean-operated cargo ship HMM Namu sustained significant damage from suspected drone strikes while anchored near the United Arab Emirates in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident occurred on May 4, 2026, when two unidentified flying objects struck the vessel's stern approximately one minute apart, causing explosions and a subsequent fire in the engine room. All 24 crew members, including six South Koreans and 18 foreign nationals, were safely evacuated without injuries.

A South Korean investigative team concluded that the damage resulted from an "external strike," noting that the impact caused a hole about 5 meters wide and 7 meters deep in the ship's stern. The exact nature of the projectiles—whether drones or missiles—and the responsible party remain unidentified.

In response to the findings, South Korea's Foreign Ministry summoned Iranian Ambassador Saeed Koozechi to discuss the incident. The Iranian embassy in Seoul has denied any involvement by Iran's armed forces in the attack.

The HMM Namu, a Panama-flagged general cargo ship operated by South Korean company HMM, was towed to Dubai for further inspection and repairs. The incident has heightened concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global oil trade, amid escalating tensions in the region.