Tue Dec 31 01:36:22 UTC 2024: ## South Korea Mourns After Deadly Plane Crash Kills 179
**Muan, South Korea** – A devastating plane crash at Muan International Airport on December 29, 2024, has claimed the lives of 179 people, marking South Korea’s worst aviation disaster in decades. A Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, carrying 181 passengers and crew from Bangkok, Thailand, burst into flames after skidding off the runway upon landing. Only two crew members survived.
Initial reports suggest a possible landing gear malfunction, although the pilot reported a bird strike before the crash. Both black boxes have been recovered, and investigations are underway involving South Korean authorities, US air safety officials, and Boeing representatives. Acting President Choi Sang-mok has ordered a nationwide safety inspection of all airline operations, with a particular focus on Boeing 737-800 aircraft.
The crash has sparked national grief and anger. Families of the victims, predominantly South Korean citizens with two Thai nationals also confirmed dead, are anxiously awaiting the identification of remains. Jeju Air, facing widespread flight cancellations, has issued a public apology and pledged full cooperation with the investigation. The airline’s stock price plummeted following the incident.
The tragedy occurs amidst political instability in South Korea, following the recent impeachments of President Yoon Suk Yeol and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo. Concerns have been raised regarding the government’s ability to effectively manage the crisis during this leadership vacuum. A national mourning period has been declared until January 4th. International condolences have poured in, including messages from Pope Francis and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, but the incident has cast a dark shadow over South Korea and the aviation industry.
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