South Korea Shifts to Crisis Mode as Iran Oil Shock Intensifies

South Korea is stepping up contingency planning for a worst-case Middle East scenario, with Prime Minister Kim Min-seok warning that the government must strengthen its preemptive response systems as the conflict shows signs of persisting.

“With the situation likely to be prolonged, there is a need to further strengthen a preemptive, whole-of-government response system, including preparations for worst-case scenarios,” Kim told reporters Wednesday. “The government will respond with utmost urgency in line with the gravity of the situation.”