Explosion and Fire on HMM Bulk Carrier in Strait of Hormuz
SEOUL, May 5 (Yonhap) — A significant explosion and fire occurred aboard the HMM Namu, a Panama-flagged bulk carrier operated by South Korea’s HMM Co., while anchored in the Strait of Hormuz. The incident took place around 8:40 p.m. Monday, Korean time, off the coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Fortunately, all 24 crew members, including six South Koreans and 18 foreign nationals, were unharmed during the event.
The South Korean presidential office announced that it will take several days to determine the cause of the explosion and subsequent fire. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung stated that a thorough investigation is underway, with investigators from the Korea Maritime Safety Tribunal and the National Fire Agency dispatched to the scene. The vessel will be towed to a nearby port for a detailed examination. “The government will brief the public transparently after swiftly and accurately determining the cause of the incident,” Kang said.
Investigation and Response Efforts
The fire reportedly originated in the engine room, prompting the crew to utilize carbon dioxide to extinguish the flames over a four-hour period. HMM confirmed that security camera footage indicated the fire was successfully put out, and plans are in place to inspect the engine room for damage assessment. The cause of the explosion remains unclear, with officials investigating whether it resulted from an external attack or an internal malfunction.
As part of the response, the South Korean government is in communication with the United States, Iran, and members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE. The oceans ministry and the Cheonghae naval unit, which operates in the Gulf of Aden, are also coordinating with the HMM Namu. The government is maintaining daily contact with 26 South Korean vessels currently anchored in the Strait of Hormuz.
In light of the incident, South Korean-operated ships in the UAE region are reportedly redirecting their routes toward Qatar to avoid the Strait of Hormuz, following government safety measures. This incident coincides with the U.S. launching an operation named Project Freedom, aimed at guiding commercial vessels through the waterway amid heightened tensions related to the ongoing U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran.
Future Actions and Crew Status
HMM plans to tow the freighter to Dubai, a process expected to take several days. The six South Korean crew members are anticipated to return home once the vessel reaches port. Currently, all crew members remain aboard the ship, having chosen to stay on board due to the fire being fully extinguished and no additional risks present.
The South Korean presidential office is also reviewing a proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump regarding potential participation in a mission to ensure the safety of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. The office emphasized its commitment to international efforts aimed at stabilizing and normalizing the global maritime logistics network.
