Here’s what it takes to become an Air Force pilot: surviving 6 times gravity

CHEONGJU, North Chungcheong Province — As the countdown begins, the cockpit-shaped simulator spins faster, and the body sinks deeper into the seat as the force surges to six times the pull of gravity.

Cheeks are pulled back, legs locked in place and short, guttural breaths come out every few seconds.

Breathing is no longer taken for granted.

“Keep your head back.

Keep your lower body and abdomen tight,” an instructor tells me.

I have to inhale and exhale forcefully with the abdomen, hips and leg ...