Army rescues two South Korean nationals from 17,000 feet in Ladakh

The Indian Army Aviation wing on the night of Thursday (September 4, 2025) airlifted two South Korean nationals stranded at over 17,000 feet in the icy heights of Ladakh.

According to the Army, at around 8:05 p.m. a request was received to evacuate Mr. Hyun Woo Kim, a citizen of the Republic of Korea, and his wife from Kongmarula Pass. The location, at an altitude of over 17,000 feet, posed severe challenges with snow-covered peaks and treacherous terrain.

The mission required a precise Night Vision Goggle (NVG) landing at an unprepared helipad, demanding exceptional flying skills and situational awareness, the Army said. Helicopters were launched by the Army Aviation squadron at 8:20 p.m.

By 9:15 p.m., the helicopter successfully landed on the icy ridge. The couple were evacuated and later handed over to medical authorities for necessary care.