20 Aug 2026 (Navroze Bureau) : US President **Donald Trump has expressed dissatisfaction with South Korea’s decision not to assist the United States in securing the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, saying Seoul relies heavily on the waterway for its oil supplies.
Trump Criticises South Korea’s Response
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump said he was unhappy when South Korea declined a US request for assistance related to the Strait of Hormuz.
He pointed to South Korea’s dependence on oil transported through the waterway while questioning why Seoul would not contribute to efforts aimed at securing the vital shipping route.
Hormuz Dispute Adds Strain to US-South Korea Ties
The disagreement comes amid broader tensions over burden-sharing between Washington and Seoul.
Trump has increasingly linked South Korea’s refusal to participate in US efforts surrounding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz with his views on the country’s broader security relationship with the United States.
US-South Korea Military Drills Also Cut Back
Trump recently ordered the Pentagon to substantially reduce joint military exercises with South Korea.
He argued that the exercises are expensive and send what he described as an inappropriate and hostile signal to North Korea, while also citing South Korea’s refusal to assist the US campaign involving Iran.
South Korea Relies on the Strait for Energy
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important energy routes, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
Trump highlighted South Korea’s dependence on the waterway as part of his criticism, saying Seoul should have a greater role in helping maintain security around the passage.
Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters
A major disruption to shipping through Hormuz can affect global oil supplies and prices because large quantities of crude and other energy products normally pass through the waterway.
The ongoing US-Iran confrontation has already reduced normal shipping activity and increased uncertainty in global energy markets.
South Korea Faces a Difficult Balancing Act
Seoul has to balance its longstanding military alliance with Washington against its own foreign-policy considerations and economic interests.
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has stressed the importance of the US alliance, even as Trump’s recent decisions have generated concern about the future direction of bilateral security cooperation.
North Korea Factor
Trump’s comments about South Korea also come as he seeks to improve relations with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
His decision to reduce US-South Korea military exercises has been partly justified by his claim that North Korea has been respectful toward Washington. South Korean officials have expressed hope that Trump’s relationship with Kim could eventually help create space for dialogue.
What Happens Next?
Trump’s criticism could add another layer of uncertainty to the US-South Korea alliance at a time when Washington is seeking greater support from allies in dealing with the Iran conflict and the Strait of Hormuz.
For Seoul, the challenge will be maintaining its security relationship with Washington while determining how far it is prepared to participate in US-led operations outside the Korean Peninsula.