Houthi rebels’ repeated attacks on maritime vessels in the Red Sea have triggered a military response from a U.S.-led international coalition aiming to safeguard crucial shipping lanes. As more ships have come under attack by Houthis missiles and drones, South Korea is reportedly weighing the deployment of its Cheonghae Unit, a naval task force operating under Combined Task Force 151 in the adjacent Gulf of Aden, as part of a broader commitment to the coalition's efforts against the Houthi insurgents.

In a move that could have broad consequences for Seoul, a senior South Korean official reportedly stated on Jan. 14 that Seoul might extend its role beyond mere protective duties if the military conflict in the Red Sea escalates.