Seoul: Nine of the ten South Koreans who were isolated following massive flooding in Nepal have been moved to safety, while one remains at the affected site, according to Seoul's foreign ministry. The South Koreans, associated with Doosan Enerbility Co., had been in a temporary shelter after evacuating the area, along with about 200 foreign employees working on a hydropower plant project in Nepal's Rasuwa district.
According to Yonhap News Agency, nine of the South Koreans were transported by a Nepalese military helicopter to a safer area, while one, a Doosan site manager, elected to remain at the construction site until all local workers have been evacuated. All individuals are reportedly in good health and are expected to travel to Kathmandu the following day.
Additionally, nine other South Koreans-six employees of Doosan and three from Korea South-East Power Co.-are unaccounted for after a flash flood and mudslide hit the area. The missing individuals and those stranded were in separate locations, with many of their accommodations likely swept away by the floods.
A rapid response team of 11 members, including officials from the foreign ministry, police, and fire authorities, departed for Nepal, intending to arrive in Kathmandu by evening. The team is set to collaborate with the South Korean embassy and Nepalese authorities to search for the missing nationals.
Foreign Minister Cho Hyun has suggested that the South Korean government may deploy a larger rescue team if necessary. He has engaged in discussions with Nepalese Foreign Minister Shisir Khanal, expressing condolences and seeking support for search efforts. President Lee Jae Myung has instructed officials to utilize all resources to protect the lives and safety of those affected.
Doosan and Korea South-East Power Co. have deployed their emergency response teams to the site. The Upper Trishuli-1 hydropower plant, under construction since January 2022, will likely face significant delays due to flood damage. The natural disaster, reportedly caused by a glacial collapse and debris flow, has resulted in at least 165 fatalities and 826 missing persons, many of whom are foreigners.