In the MBC variety show “Around the World with Birth 4” aired on the 11th, Kian84, known as “the man who lives because he was born,” expressed his deep respect while experiencing the lives of Sherpas in the Himalayas.
The episode showed Kian84 at the starting point of the Everest trek in Lukla, located at an altitude of about 2,800m, where he embarked on a Sherpa experience. Observing the Sherpas carrying heavy loads on their heads, Kian84 exclaimed, “Wow, they really carry that on their heads. That’s amazing!” He then suggested accompanying two local Sherpas, aged 18 and 20. Despite being warned by the Sherpas that beginners can’t endure it, Kian84 confidently took on the role of a porter, citing his experience as a “Korean army (a reference to his military service).”
Ultimately, he carried a 30kg load and walked the mountainous paths, directly experiencing the arduous labor. Kian84 asked the Sherpa brothers how many times they carry loads in a day, to which they replied, “3 to 4 times. We earn about 1,500 rupees (approximately 15,000 won) per trip.” To his question about when they began working, they answered “at ages 12 and 13,” leaving him shocked.
While sharing a meal together, Kian84 asked Sherpa brother Rai what he would like to do if he came to Korea, and Rai expressed an interest in working in the manufacturing sector. Another Sherpa, Tamang, shared that he doesn’t plan to continue doing this work for much longer and that he stopped his education in sixth grade due to family circumstances.
Tamang explained, “My father was sick, and because of the financial strain on my family, I had to start working and stop going to school. It’s tough, but I am enduring it.” Touched, Kian84 commented, “That’s truly amazing. You’re such a devoted son.”
Reflecting on the experience, Kian84 remarked, “It’s incredible that these young people carry on day by day, unable to attend school because they have to carry loads. The scenery here is beautiful, but when you’re working, your gaze is set on the ground rather than the sky. Earning daily to live day by day is the harsh reality for the Sherpas.”
He also lent a hand to Tamang with his work, expressing, “I’m glad I can help you even for a day. I really respect you. If I were your age, I would’ve run away.” His heartfelt encouragement resonated with the Sherpa brothers.
Meanwhile, MBC’s “Around the World with Birth 4” chronicles Kian84’s fourth world tour featuring the “Chamagodo” trek with his fellow travelers, through the “roof of the world,” Nepal, and onto the ancient trails untouched by civilization. This voyage has piqued viewers’ interest.