(4th LD) 9 of 10 isolated S. Koreans moved to safety after devastating Nepal floods

Seoul's foreign ministry reported that nine out of ten South Korean workers at a Doosan Enerbility Co. hydropower project in Nepal's Rasuwa district had been moved to safety after devastating floods. One worker remained at the construction site, expected to evacuate once others were rescued. The ministry spokesperson, Park Doo-soon, indicated that all ten South Koreans were in good health and slated to travel to Kathmandu the following day.

Separately, nine additional South Koreans — six from Doosan and three from Korea South-East Power Co. — remained unaccounted for after the floods. The rapid response team, led by officials from various agencies, departed for Nepal, aiming to locate and rescue the missing South Koreans. However, the harsh terrain and widespread destruction made rescue operations challenging.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs suggested the possibility of sending a larger rescue team if necessary. Foreign Minister Cho Hyun expressed condolences to the Nepalese people and requested active support from Nepal's government in the rescue efforts. Meanwhile, President Lee Jae Myung directed officials to make all-out efforts to safeguard lives and safety.

The Upper Trishuli-1 hydropower plant, scheduled for completion by the end of the year, has been significantly delayed due to flood damage. The death toll and the number of missing persons, mostly foreigners, have risen to 165 and 826, respectively.