Seuk Kim, a 49-year-old volunteer pilot, died in a plane crash in New York on Sunday while transporting three dogs to a no-kill shelter. Kim, a “freedom flight” volunteer pilot, was part of a network that transported pets rescued from euthanasia lists at high-kill shelters to other rescues. He was on his way to deliver the dogs to the Animal Shelter of Schoharie Valley when the plane crashed in Windham, killing one of the dogs and Kim.
Two of the dogs, a Labrador mix puppy named Whiskey and a yorkie-terrier mix named Pluto, survived the crash. Whiskey suffered two broken legs, while Pluto sustained minor injuries. The shelter will oversee the dogs’ medical recoveries before putting them up for adoption.
Kim was known for his generosity and kind spirit, and had spent countless hours flying to relocate abandoned animals. He was also involved in recent hurricane relief efforts in North Carolina. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the crash, which has not yet been determined.
Kim’s family described him as an extraordinary hero who left a lasting impression on those who met him. He was a “charitable, kind, and bright” person who was always willing to lend a hand to others. His death is a loss felt deeply by his family and the animal rescue community.
