'Those Known'-'The Tale of a Day' Spotlights 'Miracle Operation' Rescue of 390 Afghan Special Contributors

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'Those Known'-'The Tale of a Day' Spotlights 'Miracle Operation' Rescue of 390 Afghan Special Contributors

Jisoo Park · September 25, 2025 at 00:34

SBS's 'The Tale of a Day' (aka 'Those Known' or '꼬꼬무') will revisit the perilous 20,000km round-trip 'Miracle Operation' conducted in Afghanistan.

In the 194th episode airing on the 25th, actress Jeon So-min, comedian Jung Sung-ho, and singer Choi Ye-na will join as listeners to recount the miraculous moments of rescuing 390 'special contributors' and their families who had cooperated with the South Korean government and its agencies, amidst the Taliban's takeover.

When the Taliban seized control of Afghanistan in 2021, plunging the nation into chaos, South Korea prioritized the safe evacuation of its citizens and embassy staff. However, numerous Afghan locals who had aided the Korean government faced life-threatening danger from the Taliban. In response, South Korea launched the 'Miracle Operation' to rescue these individuals and their families. The Republic of Korea Air Force and relevant agencies embarked on the life-risking mission, spanning a 20,000km round trip.

The situation at Kabul Airport was a scene of utter pandemonium, with refugees desperate to escape and armed Taliban members attempting to prevent them. The path to the airport was dubbed the 'Road of Despair,' exacerbated by constant missile threat warnings targeting the landing South Korean transport planes, creating a continuous state of critical tension. South Korean Air Force personnel and embassy staff on the ground risked their lives to evacuate 390 civilians from the heart of the conflict zone.

During the critical decision-making process to determine the minimum number of personnel to re-enter Afghanistan, a deeply moving scene unfolded. Individuals volunteered enthusiastically, citing reasons such as better English proficiency, younger age, or having already raised their children, creating profound resonance. Witnessing this, Jeon So-min expressed, "Humanity is burning hot," with tears welling up, while Jung Sung-ho, a father of five, exclaimed, "Is this for real?" describing the event as akin to watching a movie.

Jeon So-min tearfully concluded, "Miracles are closer than we think," while Choi Ye-na shared her reflection, "Simply breathing at this moment, in this place, is a blessing." The urgent situations and moving emotions of the 'Miracle Operation,' which saved 390 lives from the Taliban through collective effort, will be revealed on the main broadcast of 'Those Known'.

'The Tale of a Day' (꼬꼬무) premiered in September 2020, offering viewers fresh perspectives on significant historical events. Hosted by Jang Hang-jun, Jang Hyun-sung, and Kim Mi-kyung, the show delves into the annals of history. For this special episode focusing on the 'Miracle Operation,' actress Jeon So-min, comedian Jung Sung-ho, and singer Choi Ye-na are participating as guests, sharing the emotional journey with the audience.