South Korean Mountaineer Dies in Ladakh

SRINAGAR: In a humanitarian mission, the Indian Army’s Fire and Fury Corps carried out a high-altitude night Casualty Evacuation (CASEVAC) after two South Korean nationals fell critically ill during a mountaineering expedition near Kongmarula Pass, Ladakh.

According to an official statement, the distress call was received at around 8:05 pm. “Despite the treacherous altitude of nearly 17,000 feet and snow-covered terrain, Army Aviation helicopters were swiftly pressed into action. Within just 15 minutes, at 8:20 pm, the squadron launched its aircraft.”

The operation demanded exceptional flying skills, as the pilots had to rely on Night Vision Goggles (NVG) to land on an unprepared helipad in complete darkness. By 9:15 pm, the helicopters successfully touched down at the site, and the mountaineers were airlifted and rushed to SNM Hospital, Leh.

While one of the foreign nationals tragically lost his life, the Army confirmed that the other was handed over to medical authorities for further treatment.

In a post on X, the Fire and Fury Corps said, “Fire and Fury Corps expresses heartfelt condolences to the family of the mountaineer who unfortunately lost his life.” (KNO)