On May 26, 2026, South Korea's Channel A reported, "A warning has been issued that crude oil inventories in the Asian oil market are approaching their limits."

The Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) of Energy at U.S. Carlyle stated in an interview with U.S. CNBC that "Asia is already nearing its minimum operating levels." He also pointed out that "Europe could face problems in about a month, and the United States around July."

Another media outlet reported, "Ceasefire negotiations between the U.S. and Iran have entered their final stage, raising hopes for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, but it is believed that it will take a considerable amount of time for shipping to normalize and international crude oil prices to stabilize." It is also pointed out that the specific timing and method of reopening remain unclear, and it could take several months or more for mine clearance, resumption of vessel operations, and crude oil inventory recovery.

From Korean netizens, numerous criticisms of the reporting stance have been raised, such as "Please stop reporting only things that incite anxiety," "South Korea hasn't touched its strategic oil reserves yet," "I think prices will drop immediately once the Strait of Hormuz reopens," and "If prices fall, reporters should apologize to the public. Everyone is feeling anxious, but you're just writing irresponsible things." (Translation/Editing by Asae)