Korean Wildfire Hero Indonesia: The Amazing Rescue Story That Touched Hearts
In a heartwarming display of bravery, an Indonesian fisherman became an unexpected Korean wildfire hero during the devastating blazes that swept through South Korea’s eastern regions in late March. While most people were fleeing the dangerous flames, 31-year-old Sugiyanto ran toward the danger, saving dozens of elderly villagers by carrying them to safety on his back. His selfless actions have captured the hearts of people across Korea and showcase the beautiful bonds that can form between foreign workers and local communities.
How The Korean Wildfire Hero Indonesia Sprang Into Action
When fierce winds pushed a massive wildfire toward the coastal village of Chuksan-myeon in Yeongdeok County on March 25, most residents were asleep, unaware of the approaching danger. The Korean wildfire had started three days earlier in Uiseong County before spreading rapidly across the region. As flames approached the vulnerable coastal community around 11 PM, Sugiyanto didn’t hesitate to act.
Together with village chief Yoo Myung Shin, the Indonesian man raced through the streets, pounding on doors and shouting warnings to sleeping residents. “Grandmother, there’s a fire in the mountains! You need to leave quickly!” Sugiyanto called out repeatedly, his voice cutting through the night air. The village’s location on a coastal slope made evacuation particularly challenging, especially for the many elderly residents who couldn’t move quickly enough to escape the advancing flames.
What happened next showed the true character of this Korean wildfire hero. Indonesia native Sugiyanto began physically carrying elderly villagers on his back, making multiple trips up and down the steep hillside. He and the village chief transported dozens of seniors approximately 300 meters to the village’s breakwater, where they would be safe from the flames. The physical strength required for such a feat was matched only by his courage and determination to ensure everyone survived.
Sugiyanto Saves Elderly Koreans: Villagers Share Their Gratitude
The residents of Gyeongjeong 3-ri, a small village of about 80 households with 60 residents, owe their lives to Sugiyanto’s quick thinking and selfless actions. A 90-year-old villager recalled the harrowing experience with tears in her eyes: “If it weren’t for him, we would have all died. I had fallen asleep while watching TV, but I woke up to shouts of ‘Fire!’ When I opened the door, Sugiyanto was there, and he carried me out of the house.”
The Korean wildfire hero Indonesia sent to their community has been working in Korea as a fisherman for eight years. Despite being a foreigner, he has developed strong bonds with the local community. “I love Korea, especially because the villagers feel like family,” Sugiyanto explained, demonstrating how deeply he cares for his adopted home. His ability to speak Korean well enough to communicate with the villagers proved crucial during the emergency, allowing him to coordinate the evacuation efficiently.
When asked about his heroic actions, Sugiyanto modestly shared, “I don’t even remember how much we ran. I woke up the grandmothers and carried them down the hill. I was terrified when I saw the fire reach the store in front of me.” Despite his own fear, he continued to put others’ safety before his own. Though he will need to return to Indonesia in three years due to work visa limitations, his legacy in this Korean village will last forever.
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Final Thoughts on This Korean Wildfire Hero Indonesia Should Be Proud Of
The story of Sugiyanto, the Korean wildfire hero Indonesia gifted to South Korea, reminds us of the extraordinary impact one person can have during a crisis. All 60 residents of the village safely evacuated to the breakwater thanks to the combined efforts of Sugiyanto and village chief Yoo Myung Shin. The grateful villagers couldn’t stop praising the Indonesian man, saying, “If it weren’t for Sugiyanto and the chief, we might have faced disaster. We hope such an incredible and reliable young man can continue working and living here.”
Back in Indonesia, Sugiyanto’s wife and five-year-old son heard about his heroism, bringing pride to his family. “My wife called me to say she’s really proud of me. I feel fulfilled knowing no one was hurt in the fire,” he shared with a humble smile. His story serves as a beautiful example of how foreign workers contribute positively to Korean society, often forming deep connections with local communities.
What do you think of Sugiyanto’s incredible act of bravery, Seoul Crushers? Would you have the courage to run toward danger to save others?