‘We are the first priority in oil supply—no other nation ahead of us,’ Kang emphasized. This builds on an existing 6 million barrel commitment, providing a substantial buffer amid Middle East unrest triggered by the US-Israel war.

The timing couldn’t be better. With supply chains under strain, this assurance safeguards South Korea’s refineries and economy. Kang’s briefing detailed the ironclad promise, positioning Seoul favorably in global energy markets.

Evacuation updates are equally positive: 3,000 of 3,500 South Koreans in the UAE are now back home safely. President Yoon Suk-yeol penned thank-you notes to counterparts in Japan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia for their evacuation support.

Japan’s role stood out. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s government facilitated the return of 16 South Koreans via chartered flights on Wednesday and Friday, landing them in Tokyo. Yoon praised the ‘close bilateral coordination,’ especially after a South Korean military aircraft repatriated Japanese from Saudi Arabia.

This multi-nation effort underscores regional solidarity. As the conflict rages, South Korea’s dual focus on energy security and citizen welfare sets a model for crisis management. Analysts predict the oil deal will stabilize prices and support industrial growth in the coming months.