A South Korean investigation has concluded that an Iranian-made anti-ship missile “highly likely” caused the explosion aboard a cargo vessel anchored near the Strait of Hormuz in early May. The finding, announced on May 27, 2026, marks a significant escalation in an incident that has strained relations between Seoul and Tehran.
The Panama-flagged HMM Namu, operated by South Korea’s HMM, was anchored near Umm Al Quwain in the UAE when an explosion and fire ripped through the vessel on May 4. All 24 crew members aboard, including six South Korean nationals, escaped without injury. Iran has denied any involvement.
What happened aboard the HMM Namu
The incident initially drew attention when reports surfaced of unidentified flying objects striking the ship’s engine room. That vague description has now been replaced by something far more specific: investigators believe the damage was caused by an Iranian-manufactured missile designed to target ships.
South Korea’s government has announced plans to summon the Iranian ambassador for a formal protest. The investigation itself remains ongoing, though the “highly likely” characterization suggests investigators feel confident enough in their findings to take public action.
