Kathmandu: Foreign Minister Cho Hyun is set to depart for Nepal to meet with his Nepali counterpart and discuss Seoul's support for search-and-rescue efforts following devastating floods, the foreign ministry announced. During this visit, Cho aims to hold talks with Nepalese Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal and connect with the families of the missing South Koreans.

According to Yonhap News Agency, nine Koreans, including six employees of Doosan Enerbility Co. and three of Korea South-East Power Co., went missing on August 26 after massive floods and landslides struck the Rasuwa District near the Nepal-Tibet border. The Koreans were working at a hydropower plant construction site when the disaster occurred.

Cho's discussions with Khanal are expected to focus on facilitating and intensifying search efforts for the missing nationals. They will also address support measures for the recovery of affected areas and other mutual concerns. During his visit, Cho plans to encourage the Korea Disaster Relief Team (KDRT) working at the disaster site and meet with officials from the involved companies conducting their own search efforts.

The KDRT, dispatched by the government, is actively working with Nepalese authorities and corporate response teams. They are utilizing helicopters, drones, search dogs, and other equipment in their mission to locate the missing individuals. Following his Nepal visit, Cho is anticipated to travel to France to accompany President Lee Jae Myung on a state visit, as noted by officials.

Foreign media reports indicate that over 1,200 people have been killed and nearly 6,000 remain missing as of Wednesday, highlighting the disaster's severity.