Korean rescue teams struggling to reach Nepal flood site as 9 still missing

South Korean government and corporate rescue teams are facing difficulties in reaching a hydropower plant construction site in Nepal, where nine South Koreans remain missing. The concern is heightened by the risk of further flooding. The government's joint rapid response team reached Kathmandu on Thursday, while corporate teams from Doosan Enerbility Co. and Korea South-East Power Co. arrived on Friday.

They have secured six helicopters for search and rescue operations, but these aircraft have not yet received flight approval from Nepalese authorities, as reported by ministry officials. Helicopter travel is crucial due to the destruction of roads and bridges. However, Nepalese authorities have imposed restrictions on private helicopter operations due to the risk of additional flooding, according to a ministry official.

The nine missing individuals, six employees of Doosan and three from the power generation firm, were at the construction site in Rasuwa district when a massive flash flood and mudslide hit on Wednesday.