Kathmandu: Climbers from Nepal and Korea, as part of the Nepal-Korea Friendship Expedition-2024, have successfully reached the summit of the virgin peak Jugal I in Sindhupalchok district. The historic ascent, commemorating the golden jubilee of bilateral relations between Nepal and South Korea, marks a significant milestone in mountaineering history.
The expedition’s first team, comprised of Captain Um Hong Gil, Lakpa Dendi Sherpa, and Lama Babu Sherpa, achieved the remarkable feat on May 3rd.
Continuing the triumph, on May 4th, climbers Joung Je Gyun, Kim Dong Jin, Koo Eun Soo, and Baek Jong Min also scaled the peak, reaching the summit at 12:30 pm, Ngawa Ngima added.
The Nepal-Korea Friendship Expedition-2024, dedicated to conquering the unexplored peaks of Jugal-I (6591m) & II (6518m) in Sindhupalchok district, celebrates the enduring bond between the two nations. These peaks, opened for expedition activities by the government just last year, stand as testament to the adventurous spirit shared by Nepal and Korea.
Sharing the exhilarating experience on social media, Lakpa Dendi Sherpa expressed gratitude for the bonds of friendship and resilience forged during the ascent. “With the indomitable spirit of the Korean-Nepal Friendship Jugal 1 Expedition, we etched our names into the annals of mountaineering history,” Lakpa wrote, recounting the challenges overcome and the inspiring leadership of Captain Um Hong Gil.
With Jugal I conquered, the expedition now sets its sights on the next challenge: Jugal II. The government’s gesture of waiving royalty fees for the climbers underscores the collaborative effort of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Civil Aviation, the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), Nepal Tourism Board, Korea Alpine Federation, Um Hong Gil Human Foundation, and Jugal Rural Municipality in making this historic endeavor possible.