Go to contents

Joining rescue efforts for earthquake-stricken Nepal

Posted April. 27, 2015 07:19,   

한국어

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.8 hit Nepal near its capital Katmandu on Saturday, leaving more than 2,000 people dead and several thousand injured. As there are many buildings made of mud-plastered walls in this old city where 12 percent of Nepal’s total population (30 million) live together, some forecast that the death toll will exceed 4,500. Humanity’s common asset was destroyed as the massive earthquake demolished Dharahara (Bhimsen) Tower, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to a pile of rubble. Deadly avalanche was triggered in the world’s highest mountain Everest by the earthquake, causing the worst disaster in history killing 18 climbers in the base camp. It is reported that this quake is 16 times more powerful than the earthquake in 2010 that caused 300,000 victims in Haiti. It is hard to estimate how much the damage would grow further.

Nepal is the nation where Mt. Everest is located, the love and attraction of climbers around the world. Every year, 10,000 Koreans visit Nepal for sightseeing and tracking. Also, 50,000 Nepalese workers are working in Korea every year. Many Nepalese youths learn Korean to fulfill a Korean dream. As the nation is located in the alpine region and its borders are surrounded by continents, tourism is the only developed industry in Nepal. The remote and mountainous nation is one of the poorest countries in the world, with per capita income of 694 U.S. dollars in 2013. It is all the more heartbreaking that Nepalese people, although half of them are illiterate, are well-known for their optimistic characteristics.

Humanitarianism transcends borders in front of overwhelming natural disasters. The U.S., the U.K, and many other nations started rescue activities, pledging to do whatever it takes to help the earthquake-stricken nation. As a responsible member of the international community, Korea must actively participate in the rescue efforts. The Korean government has decided to provide emergency humanitarian aid worth 1 million dollars and announced to review positively further possible supports including sending emergency rescue teams. As Korea has in-depth experiences in overseas emergency relief, our support can be a great help to save people and reconstruct the ruined city. Not only the government but also the private area must join forces together. Our best wishes go to Nepalese people, hoping them not to lose hope until the end and overcome the disaster.