Indonesian Seaman Awarded Long-Term Residency for Heroic Actions During Fire

The South Korean government has decided to grant long-term residency status to 31-year-old Indonesian seaman, Sukiyanto, for his heroic efforts in assisting local residents during a recent wildfire in Uiseong, North Gyeongsang Province. On April 6, Lee Han-gyeong, the Deputy Director of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters, announced during a meeting at the Government Sejong Building that Sukiyanto, along with two other Indonesian nationals, would receive special residency status for their contributions in helping elderly residents escape the fire.

Sukiyanto, who has been living in South Korea for eight years on a work visa, was recognized for his bravery on March 25 when he and a local fishing association leader, Yoo Myung-sin, went door-to-door to wake sleeping residents as the fire spread towards their village. The area, characterized by steep coastal hills and a high population of elderly residents, posed significant evacuation challenges. Sukiyanto carried residents who had difficulty moving to safety, transporting them approximately 300 meters to a nearby breakwater.

A 90-year-old resident who was rescued expressed gratitude, stating, "If it weren't for Sukiyanto, we would all have died. I fell asleep while watching TV, and when I heard the shouting about the fire, I saw Sukiyanto outside. He helped me escape by carrying me on his back."

Sukiyanto, who works as a crab fisherman, faces the prospect of leaving South Korea in three years, as he has a wife and a five-year-old son back in Indonesia. Following the incident, the Ministry of Justice announced on April 1 that they would consider granting him F-2 residency status due to his significant contributions to saving lives. Long-term residency can be awarded by the Minister of Justice to individuals who have made special contributions to South Korea or have advanced public welfare.