South Korea is grappling with its deadliest air disaster after a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crash-landed at Muan International Airport on Sunday, killing 179 people and leaving two crew members as the sole survivors. The flight, originating from Bangkok, skidded off the runway, struck a concrete wall, and burst into flames.
Jeju Air CEO Kim Yi-bae stated during a press conference that pre-flight inspections found “no issues” with the landing gear, but investigators are questioning why the gear was not deployed during the emergency landing. Authorities are exploring possible causes, including a bird strike or adverse weather conditions.
The tragedy has left hundreds of grieving relatives at Muan airport, many frustrated by delays in identifying victims due to the severity of the burns suffered in the crash. Only a few remains have been released to families so far, with forensic teams working meticulously at the crash site.
In response to the disaster, Jeju Air announced plans to reduce air traffic this winter by 10-15% to focus on maintenance. CEO Kim acknowledged the airline’s history of fines and administrative actions but pledged to strengthen safety measures, enhance weather monitoring, and provide emergency compensation to victims’ families.
The investigation is ongoing, with officials examining the plane’s black boxes, though a missing connector in the flight data recorder may delay findings. Authorities are also scrutinizing the airport’s concrete barriers, which exacerbated the crash’s impact.
South Korea has entered a week of national mourning, with New Year celebrations scaled back or canceled, including Seoul’s annual bell-ringing ceremony. A cruise company faced backlash for continuing a fireworks display and has since been suspended for six months.
The disaster has cast a somber shadow over the country as it seeks answers and justice for the victims.
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