Iran tensions prompt South Korea to dispatch envoy to secure fuel supply.

South Korea is sending its chief of staff to Kazakhstan, Oman and Saudi Arabia to secure crude oil and naphtha after disruptions linked to Iran in the Strait of Hormuz; Seoul also reached an agreement with the United Arab Emirates for 24 million barrels of crude and initial shipments have arrived.

South Korea is sending its chief of staff as a special envoy to Kazakhstan, Oman and Saudi Arabia to secure additional crude oil and naphtha supplies. Kang Hoon-sik is scheduled to depart Tuesday evening, according to the announcement. The effort responds to an energy crunch tied to the war in the Middle East and disruptions reported in the Strait of Hormuz. South Korea recently agreed with the United Arab Emirates to receive 24 million barrels of crude, and initial shipments have arrived. Key facts: - Kang Hoon-sik will travel to Kazakhstan, Oman and Saudi Arabia as a special envoy to seek crude oil and naphtha supplies. - South Korea has an agreement with the United Arab Emirates for 24 million barrels of crude, with initial shipments already arriving. - More than 60% of South Korea's crude and 50% of its naphtha imports passed through the Strait of Hormuz last year, which is reported as largely blocked by Iran. Summary: The envoy mission aims to broaden South Korea's sources of fuel and reduce supply strain, with the immediate next step being Kang Hoon-sik's departure Tuesday evening. Broader outcomes depend on developments in the Middle East and shipping conditions through the Strait of Hormuz and are undetermined at this time.