Army Rescues South Korean Nationals from 17,000 Feet in Ladakh

Quick Summary

• The Indian Army aviation wing carried out a rescue operation on the night of Thursday, September 4, 2025.
• Two South Korean nationals, Mr. Hyun Woo Kim and his wife, were stranded at Kongmarula Pass in Ladakh at an altitude of over 17,000 feet.
• A request for evacuation was received at approximately 8:05 p.m., and helicopters were dispatched by the Army Aviation squadron by 8:20 p.m.
• Despite challenges posed by snow-covered peaks and treacherous terrain,Night vision Goggle (NVG) landing was conducted on an unprepared helipad requiring advanced flying skills.
• The triumphant evacuation of the couple concluded with thier transfer to medical authorities for necessary care by 9:15 p.m.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The swift and efficient response from the Indian Army in rescuing the stranded South Korean nationals highlights India’s robust capability to manage critical missions in antagonistic landscapes such as Ladakh’s icy heights. This operation underscores India’s commitment not only to safeguarding its strategic regions but also to providing humanitarian aid during emergencies involving foreign nationals within its territory. It provides a testament to advancements in military aviation technology like NVG-supported flights aiding precision operations under extreme conditions. This instance may further bolster bilateral relations between India and South Korea through gestures of goodwill while asserting India’s preparedness to handle crises effectively in high-altitude terrains.

Read more: The Hindu