Jeju Air crash: South Korea starts releasing victims to families
Muan: South Korean authorities have started releasing the bodies of victims from the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crash to their families. The tragic incident occurred when the aircraft crash-landed and burst into flames at Muan airport. The plane was carrying 181 people on a flight from Thailand to South Korea. Out of those on board, only two flight attendants survived, pulled from the wreckage. All other passengers and crew perished.
Transport Minister Park Sang-woo announced at Muan airport on Tuesday, “Of the 179 victims, the bodies of four have completed the handover procedures to their bereaved families for funerals.”
He added that for 28 victims whose identities and autopsies have been completed, funeral procedures would commence from 2 pm local time (0500 GMT) with family consent.
Mourning across South Korea
The nation is observing a seven-day mourning period, with flags flying at half-mast. Memorial altars have been set up nationwide, including in Seoul. At Muan airport, families of the victims oversaw the creation of a new altar on Tuesday, adorned with black-and-white funeral flowers.
Among the families affected was one that lost nine members. The eldest passenger on the flight, surnamed Bae, was on his first-ever overseas trip to celebrate his birthday. He was travelling with his wife, two daughters, one son-in-law, and four grandchildren, including a five-year-old. None survived. A local broadcaster, KBC, reported that the only remaining family member, a son-in-law who was unable to join the trip, is in deep despair. “I should have gone with them and died with them,” he reportedly said.
Investigation efforts intensify
US investigators, including representatives from Boeing, have arrived at the crash site to assist in the investigation. South Korean authorities are focusing on analysing the two black boxes recovered from the wreckage to understand the cause of the crash. The deputy civil aviation minister, Joo Jong-wan, stated that the black boxes are currently undergoing surface cleaning and condition assessment. However, challenges remain as the flight data recorder was found with a missing connector.
“Technical reviews are underway to determine how to extract the data,” Joo said.
The aircraft made a mayday call before belly-landing and crashing into a barrier, leading to the catastrophic fire. Soldiers are carefully searching the fields around the airport for additional evidence, while investigators examine the wrecked fuselage.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok, who assumed office only last Friday, described the crash as a “turning point” for South Korea. He has called for a comprehensive review of the nation’s air safety systems.
“I urge officials to thoroughly re-examine the overall aircraft operation system... and immediately address any necessary improvements,” he said.
Addressing the nation on Tuesday, Choi urged citizens to reflect on the year and prepare for the next.
“Today marks the final day of 2024,” he said. “I am well aware that whenever challenges arose, both domestically and internationally, all citizens and public officials united with one heart and mind to overcome these crises.”
Grief and tributes
At the crash site, people have been leaving offerings for the victims, including food and heartfelt letters. One such letter placed on the airport’s perimeter fence read, “Captain, first officer, and crew members, thank you so much for doing your best to save the passengers. I pray for your eternal rest.”
Inside the airport, relatives of the victims have camped out since the tragedy, waiting for updates. Many expressed frustration over delays in identifying the victims, though officials assured them that efforts were underway to expedite the process.
A complete understanding of the crash’s final moments will likely emerge after authorities have analysed the black boxes. As the nation mourns, investigators remain focused on finding answers to prevent such a tragedy from recurring.
AFP