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Sugianto, who saved 7 grandmothers from a wildfire and got an F-2 visa, has returned to Indonesia – but why?

Author
Instructor
Date
2025-06-29 13:35
Views
24

연합뉴스 

In March, a massive wildfire in Gyeongbuk Province, South Korea, led to an Indonesian fisherman named Sugianto being hailed as a "wildfire hero." He rescued seven elderly villagers, some in their 80s and 90s, by waking them from their sleep and helping them evacuate. For his bravery, the Ministry of Justice granted him an F-2 visa, which permits long-term stay and unrestricted employment in Korea.

However, Sugianto has since returned to Indonesia to farm. This unexpected move was due to the fire destroying all his fishing equipment in Yeongdeok, making it impossible for him to continue working as a crab fisherman. He expressed sadness, noting that the Yeongdeok villagers felt like family.

The article also highlights the ongoing struggles of Yeongdeok's largely elderly population. Nearly 100 days after the fire, they have yet to replace their damaged fishing gear, as there has been no direct compensation for equipment. Current laws only allow loan support for damages exceeding 60 million won, a burden many elderly residents are unwilling or unable to take on.

Despite his current situation in Indonesia, Sugianto, aware of the villagers' plight, stated his desire to return to Korea and resume working with them.


‘할매 7명’ 산불서 구한 수기안토, 인도네시아 돌아갔다? 

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