A seven-member expedition team from the Korean Alpine Federation (KAF) has been officially flagged off for a historic mission to scale the unclimbed SAT Peak (6,220m) in eastern Nepal. The expedition, expected to further strengthen diplomatic and cultural ties between Nepal and the Republic of Korea, is scheduled to depart for Taplejung on Tuesday.
Organised by Sora Adventure Treks and Expedition, the send-off ceremony was held in Kathmandu in the presence of distinguished dignitaries and stakeholders from Nepal’s tourism and mountaineering sectors. The team’s ambitious goal is to achieve the first-ever ascent of SAT Peak, a mountain that has remained unconquered despite previous attempts by climbers.
Historic Climb in the Kanchenjunga Region
SAT Peak lies in the Janak Himal range within the renowned Kanchenjunga region of Taplejung district. The peak is considered technically challenging and remote, making it a significant objective for mountaineers seeking new frontiers. The climbing route extends approximately 6.3 kilometers from the base camp and typically requires around a month to complete.
The expedition will follow a classic trekking and caravan route via Taplejung–Ghunsa–Lonak–Tshima Glacier before reaching the base camp. Notably, the KAF team will attempt the climb in alpine style without the support of Nepali guides, highlighting their technical capability and commitment to a pure climbing approach.
Strong Diplomatic and Tourism Significance
The expedition carries not only mountaineering importance but also diplomatic value. Park Tae-Young, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Nepal, expressed confidence that the expedition would enhance tourism exchange between the two nations.
He noted that Nepal has long been a favored destination for Korean travelers, and such high-profile expeditions could inspire more adventure enthusiasts from Korea to explore the Himalayan nation. Emphasizing decades of friendly relations, Ambassador Park stated that the climb would further promote mutual understanding, cooperation, and shared aspirations for prosperity.
Similarly, Ram Krishna Lamichhane, Director General of Nepal’s Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, highlighted the importance of exploring unclimbed peaks. He remarked that successful first ascents could open new possibilities in Nepal’s mountaineering sector and diversify tourism offerings.
Support from the Mountaineering Community
Phur Gelje Sherpa, President of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), reaffirmed the association’s commitment to international collaboration. He stated that NMA is keen to work closely with KAF to promote sustainable mountain tourism in both countries.
Sherpa also announced that Nepal will host the General Assembly of the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) from October 28 to 31, further underscoring Nepal’s growing role in the global mountaineering community.
Meanwhile, Amar Bahadur Shahi, President of the Korea Tours and Trekking Operators Association Nepal (KOTTAN), emphasized the organization’s ongoing efforts to boost tourism and foster people-to-people connections between Nepal and Korea.
Determined Team Eyes Historic Success
The expedition is led by experienced climber An ChiYoung and includes members Euijoon Lee, Hyungwook Choi, Jiho Choi, Jongmin Baek, Sangkug Lee, and Seoyeong Bae. Fully funded by KAF, the team is prepared to face the technical and environmental challenges of a virgin peak.
Team leader An expressed strong determination to achieve a successful ascent, describing the expedition as both a personal and national milestone. He noted that the climb represents a meaningful step toward strengthening cooperation between climbers of Nepal and Korea.
Adding to this, Ngawa Ngima Sherpa, owner of Sora Adventure and liaison officer for KAF, described the expedition as a reflection of longstanding bilateral ties. He expressed pride in managing such a historic expedition and reiterated the significance of SAT Peak as one of Nepal’s remaining unclimbed mountains.
A Step Toward New Himalayan Frontiers
As Nepal continues to promote lesser-known peaks to diversify its tourism industry, the SAT Peak expedition stands as a landmark effort in Himalayan exploration. If successful, the KAF team will not only achieve a historic first ascent but also pave the way for future expeditions to Nepal’s many untouched summits.
The climb is expected to draw international attention to the remote Kanchenjunga region, reinforcing Nepal’s reputation as a premier destination for adventure tourism while deepening ties between the two long-standing, friendly nations.
