Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun (right) on Sept. 25, 2025, shakes hands with his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of a high-level session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

By Kang Gahui

Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun will send a special envoy to Iran to discuss the situation in the Middle East and pending issues between Seoul and Tehran.

Minister Cho and his Iranian counterpart Seyed Abbas Araghchi on April 9 agreed on the envoy in phone talks.

Minister Cho welcomed the ceasefire agreement between the U.S. and Iran and hailed it for creating the conditions for the resumption of passage through the Strait of Hormuz. He added his hope for successful bilateral negotiations for the sake of peace and stability in the Middle East.

Given the ceasefire, he stressed the need for swift and safe resumption of free passage for all vessels -- including Korean ships -- through the strait. He also urged Tehran to take special interest and cooperate in ensuring the safety of Korean nationals in Iran.

Minister Araghchi explained his government's stance on the situation in the region including the strait, welcoming Seoul's decision to send the envoy. Both sides also agreed to keep close communications on related issues.

kgh89@korea.kr