The Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), along with the Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA) and the Nepal Tourism Board (NTB), honored two Korean organizations for their unwavering support in enhancing Nepal’s mountain tourism.

During an official function in Kathmandu, the capital city of Nepal, organized to celebrate the 50th Anniversary (Golden Jubilee) of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Korea, the NMA, MoCTCA, and NTB jointly honored the Korea Alpine Federation (KAF) and the Um Hong Gil Human Foundation, which have been supporting Nepal in promoting and preserving Nepal’s mountain tourism, mountain environment, and the cultural heritage of mountain people.

The Honorable Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Mr. Hit Bahadur Tamang, on behalf of all three organizations, presented a letter of appreciation to Dr. Son Joong Ho, President of KAF, and Mr. Um Hong Gil, Executive Director of the Um Hong Gil Human Foundation.

Both organizations have been involved in the Friendship Expeditions of Jugal I & II. NMA initiated and proposed both organizations for this expedition, aiming to promote these newly opened peaks designated by the Government of Nepal.

The members of this expedition team, comprising Nepali and Korean climbers, are currently at base camp, awaiting favorable weather conditions for the final push. NMA, MoCTCA, KAF, the Um Hong Gil Human Foundation, NTB, and Jugal Rural Municipality are involved in this expedition, coinciding with the celebration of the 50th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Korea.

Minister Tamang emphasized the importance of fostering strong relationships between Korean and Nepali organizations for the betterment of Nepal’s mountain tourism. "Korea has been our biggest and most reliable supporter in Nepal's overall development. I believe in continued cooperation and collaboration between us for further progress in our nation's development," Minister Tamang added. "I urge our Korean friends to continue supporting Nepal."

NMA Senior Vice President Mr. Thakur Raj Pandey and the Officiating Chief Executive Officer of NTB, Ms. Nandini Lahe Thapa, expressed gratitude to all supporting organizations and individuals for their participation in the Jugal joint expedition.