One South Korean, Kwon Young Jun, jumped over a broken 600-foot walkway in an attempt to reach his wife and child in the tragic 7.7-magnitude earthquake on March 28, 2025. The viral incident exhibits the extent to which a father will risk it all to save a family, but it also puts into question the thin line between heroism and endangerment in the aftermath of natural disasters.
The earthquake, whose epicenter was near Myanmar, brought widespread devastation, claiming more than 1,600 lives and thousands more injured or trapped under debris.
In Thailand, where Kwon was with his family on the 52nd floor of the Park Origin Thonglor condominium complex, the earthquake made buildings tilt and walkways crack. Thinking his wife, Sukanya Yutuam, and their baby were in imminent danger, Kwon made a quick decision and jumped across the deep chasm between where he was and where they were. The India Today report stated he alighted on the opposite side, only to find out that his family had already left and were safe waiting together outside the building. Miraculously, Kwon survived with only minor scratches, thanks to his luck and resolve.
The death toll from the earthquake has been devastating, especially in Myanmar, where it rose above 1,600, with USGS experts estimating it may reach 10,000. At least 10 people died in Thailand, including all employees in the control tower of Naypyidaw airport, destroyed by the quake. Structures all over both countries fell down, with more than 1,200 homes, three schools, a hotel, and a number of religious buildings damaged or destroyed.
Rescue operations were desperate, with teams and survivors excavating by hand because there was not much heavy equipment. International relief has poured in, with China sending a 37-strong team with life detectors, India sending 118 personnel including medical and search teams, and the European Union committing €2.5 million in relief.
Kwon’s daring jump has captured global attention, but it has also sparked a heated debate. While many admire his courage, others question whether the act was necessary, given that his family was already safe. Social media platforms, including Reddit, are buzzing with mixed reactions, with some hailing him as a hero and others calling it a reckless move.
“What did he save them from if they were already out?”
one Reddit user posted, reflecting the skepticism that has emerged.
The earthquake’s aftermath has cast its lasting impression over the region. Rescuers are still looking for survivors in Myanmar, with over 90 trapped under debris in Mandalay alone. One woman was rescued from under the remains after 30 hours, sending a spark of hope in the sea of despondency. The United Nations has pointed to critical medical supplies shortages, such as trauma kits, blood bags, and anesthetics, making recovery more difficult.
For Kwon and his family, physical harm was minimal, though psychological and social consequences can last longer. The incident was shocking enough to see for his wife, who explained in interviews with reporters it was instinct to save those he loves. But this accident has also raised questions over wider issues, including building safety in earthquake zones. It has been noted by experts that less than 10% of buildings in Bangkok are designed to withstand earthquakes, with older structures especially exposed, as cited by the BBC.
