A devastating aviation disaster in South Korea has claimed the lives of at least 127 people after a Jeju Air flight carrying 181 passengers and crew exploded following an emergency landing.
The tragedy, which occurred at Muan International Airport, has left only two survivors and raised questions about the circumstances leading to the crash.
Investigations are ongoing as the nation grapples with both the aftermath of the accident and political turmoil.
Bird Strikes and Bad Weather
The National Fire Agency of South Korea confirmed the death toll had risen to 127, with 54 men and 57 women among the deceased. Thirteen bodies remain unidentified.
The airplane, traveling from Bangkok, Thailand, made an emergency landing at Muan International Airport before exploding, according to Digi24.
The tail section was found relatively intact, but much of the plane was unrecognizable, according to Lee Jeong-hyun, the head of the Muan Fire Department.
The tragedy has mobilized 1,562 personnel, including firefighters and police officers, to assist in rescue efforts.
A black box has been recovered, which may provide critical data to investigators.
Preliminary findings suggest adverse weather and bird strikes could have contributed to the crash, though these remain unconfirmed.
Jeju Air, South Korea's largest low-cost airline, has expressed profound apologies to the victims and their families.
In a press conference, CEO Kim E-bae and senior executives bowed their heads in contrition, vowing to prioritize support for those affected.
The airline has also changed its website to a black background as a mark of respect. Boeing, the plane's manufacturer, extended condolences to the victims’ families.
In the wake of the disaster, all flights at Muan International Airport have been canceled.
Interim President Choi Sang-mok has ordered a full deployment of resources to respond to the emergency.
Meanwhile, South Korea’s Aviation Incident Investigation Committee has commenced an inquiry into the cause of the accident.
