The South Korean government is sending an 11-member joint rapid response team to Nepal, where a major flood has affected many, including South Koreans.
According to authorities on August 27, the team will consist of four members from the Foreign Ministry, five firefighters, and two police officers.
President Yoon Suk Yeol issued an urgent directive on August 26, stating, "Mobilize all available resources to search for and rescue the missing. The lives and safety of our citizens must be the top priority." He also emphasized the importance of closely cooperating with the Nepalese government and local authorities, providing support to the families of the missing, ensuring the safety of South Koreans currently in the area, and taking all necessary measures to prevent further damage.
Im Sang-woo, a representative from the Foreign Ministry responsible for the protection of overseas citizens and consular affairs, will lead the team, which will assist in the search and rescue of South Koreans on the ground.
The team is scheduled to depart from Incheon International Airport on a commercial flight this afternoon, with a stopover in Hong Kong before arriving in Kathmandu, Nepal.
On August 26, floods occurred in the central northern Himalayan region of Nepal, resulting in at least 160 fatalities and leaving 403 people missing, including 341 foreigners.
Nine South Koreans have lost contact, while another ten are reported to be isolated but safe. These individuals are affiliated with Korea Southeast Power and Doosan Enerbility, which are involved in local hydropower projects.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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