The death toll from the Jeju Air crash at Muan International Airport early Sunday morning has risen to 177, from our early report of 28 marking South Korea’s deadliest aviation disaster.
The Boeing 737-800, carrying 181 passengers and six crew members, was en route from Bangkok, Thailand, when it veered off the runway upon landing. The aircraft collided with a wall before erupting into flames, leaving a devastating trail of destruction.
The crash occurred shortly after 9:00 a.m. local time (00:00 GMT), surpassing the 2002 Air China crash, which claimed 129 lives, as South Korea’s most fatal air disaster. This also represents the first fatal crash involving a South Korean airline in more than a decade.
Authorities confirmed that 1,562 emergency personnel, including 490 firefighters and 455 police officers, were deployed to the crash site. Despite their efforts, only two survivors, both crew members, have been rescued from the wreckage. They are currently receiving medical treatment.
The National Fire Agency revealed that 177 bodies have been recovered so far, with ongoing efforts to locate additional victims or potential survivors.
Investigators suspect a combination of a bird strike and adverse weather conditions may have contributed to the crash. However, a thorough investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok,Choi visited the crash site to oversee recovery operations and console the bereaved families, Choi Sang-mok,Cho took office only 48 hours prior amidst a political crisis, and declared Muan an emergency disaster area. This declaration facilitates the allocation of central government funds to aid recovery efforts and support the affected families.
“We are facing a tragic situation with a significant loss of life,” Choi remarked. “I extend my heartfelt condolences to the victims and their loved ones. Our immediate focus is on ensuring the injured receive the best possible care and providing support to grieving families during this challenging time.”
Choi also visited the crash site to oversee recovery operations and console the bereaved families personally.
Jeju Air, South Korea’s largest low-cost carrier, issued a heartfelt apology, with its CEO Kim E-bae addressing the tragedy at a press conference. “Our top priority is to support the bereaved families during this difficult time,” Kim said, adding that the airline has pledged full cooperation with investigations and victim assistance.
In a symbolic gesture of mourning, Jeju Air’s website has been changed to a somber black theme, and an official apology has been posted online.
Boeing, the aircraft manufacturer, also extended condolences to the victims and their families, promising support in uncovering the cause of the tragedy.
This catastrophic crash has sent shockwaves across South Korea, adding to the nation’s ongoing political instability. Jeju Air, which has operated since 2005, was known for its strong safety record, with this being its first fatal accident in nearly two decades of operation.
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The tragedy has left the nation grieving and grappling with the profound loss of life, as the recovery and investigation continue in the wake of South Korea’s darkest day in aviation history.
David Lammy, the UK Foreign Secretary, also expressed his sympathies on his X handle, stating: “Deeply saddened by news of the plane crash overnight in South Korea. My heartfelt condolences go out to the people of South Korea and Thailand, and all those that have lost loved ones.”
