Indonesian Seaman Granted 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 helping local residents evacuate during a recent wildfire in Uiseong, Gyeongbuk. On April 6, Lee Han-kyung, the Deputy Director of the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasure Headquarters, announced this decision during a meeting at the Government Sejong Complex. He expressed gratitude to Sukiyanto and two other Indonesian nationals who assisted elderly residents in distress during the fire.

Sukiyanto, who has been living in South Korea for eight years on a work visa, was instrumental in waking up sleeping villagers when the wildfire spread to their area on March 25. He, along with the village head, went door-to-door to alert residents, many of whom were elderly and unable to evacuate quickly. He carried some of the more vulnerable residents approximately 300 meters to safety at a nearby breakwater.

A 90-year-old villager, who was rescued by Sukiyanto, stated, '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 him outside. He carried me on his back and helped me escape my home.'

Sukiyanto works as a crab fisherman and has a wife and a five-year-old son in Indonesia. He was facing the prospect of leaving South Korea in three years due to his visa status. Following his heroic actions, the Ministry of Justice announced on April 1 that they would consider granting him F-2 residency status, which is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to South Korea or public welfare.

This decision highlights the government's recognition of foreign nationals who contribute positively to society, especially in times of crisis.