Elderly Foreigner Lost on Jeju's Sanbangsan Rescued by Helicopter

A recent incident on Jeju's scenic Sanbangsan Mountain highlights the importance of respecting designated boundaries and regulations, even for visitors seeking adventure. A 60-year-old tourist from Singapore found himself in distress after becoming lost in a restricted area of the mountain, necessitating a significant rescue operation involving the island's fire safety authorities and a helicopter.

“

A distress call was received reporting that Mr. A (60s), a Singaporean national, was lost in Sanbangsan Mountain in Andeok-myeon, Seogwipo-si.

The swift response from the Jeju Fire and Rescue Service, utilizing mobile phone location data, led to the successful recovery of the individual approximately two hours after the initial distress call. Fortunately, the tourist sustained no serious injuries. However, the circumstances of the rescue underscore a lapse in judgment, as the individual had apparently entered a zone explicitly marked as off-limits to the public.

“

Mr. A was rescued by a helicopter approximately two hours later and was reportedly not seriously injured.

This event serves as a reminder that while Jeju's natural beauty is a major draw, its preservation and the safety of its visitors are paramount. The Jeju Self-Governing Police are now investigating the incident, focusing on the reasons behind the unauthorized entry into the restricted area. This case emphasizes the need for all visitors to adhere strictly to park rules and signage to ensure their own safety and to protect the delicate ecosystems and cultural heritage sites that make Jeju a unique destination.

“

It was determined that Mr. A had illegally entered the restricted area of Sanbangsan Mountain.