Korean firefighters hailed for 'swift response' in rescuing crash victim in Colorado

Korean firefighters are seen in an image posted by the Adams County Fire Rescue Department on its official Facebook page in Colorado. Courtesy of National Fire Agency

A team of firefighters from Korea, who were taking part in a swiftwater rescue training course in Colorado, sprang into action at the scene of a motorway crash. They were praised by U.S. emergency services for their quick and professional response.

According to the National Fire Agency of Korea, five firefighters rescued an unconscious driver who was trapped inside an overturned vehicle following a collision involving two cars near Denver at around 10:50 p.m. local time on June 13.

The five firefighters — Lee Ki-pyeong, Pyeon Young-beom, Jo In-seong and Kim Young-jin of the Central 119 Rescue Headquarters, and Kim Goo-hyeon of the South Jeolla Fire Department — had been returning to their accommodations after training when they witnessed the crash.

They immediately pulled over their vehicle, called 911 and began a rescue operation. After entering the overturned vehicle through the rear window, they extricated the unconscious driver and performed CPR until local emergency services arrived and took over.

Despite their efforts, the driver was later pronounced dead in a hospital. Nevertheless, the response of the Korean firefighters made a lasting impression on local citizens and authorities alike.

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the Adams County Fire Rescue Department praised the Korean firefighters, saying, “We are incredibly grateful to these firefighters for their swift response.”

The incident has attracted attention in both the U.S. and Korea, showcasing the professionalism and preparedness of Korean emergency responders even when operating abroad.