In the wake of South Korea's worst air disaster, relatives of the victims gather at Muan International Airport, expressing their grief and frustration over the lack of information regarding the crash. They strive to better understand the aviation safety issues involved in the tragedy.
Families of South Korean Plane Crash Victims Seek Answers at Muan Airport

Families of South Korean Plane Crash Victims Seek Answers at Muan Airport
Following the tragic Jeju Air crash that claimed 179 lives, grieving families unite at Muan International Airport, demanding transparency and accountability.
At Muan International Airport, the heart-wrenching scene of grief unfolds as families of the victims from the Jeju Air crash come together. This tragic incident, which took place on December 29, marked South Korea’s most devastating aviation disaster, claiming 179 lives. As families unite in their sorrow, the airport has transformed into an impromptu community hub where loved ones gather, share meals, and offer each other support, even sleeping overnight in makeshift tents.
Many relatives, still reeling from the shock of the event, find solace in community. “We’re a family now,” states Son Joo-taek, whose son was among those lost. He, along with around 20 others, discusses their shared grief and the unique understanding they share that others might not grasp.
However, as time passes, these grieving families are increasingly shifting their focus from mourning to seeking answers. They are frustrated by the slow flow of information from authorities about the crash that occurred while the plane was returning to South Korea filled with passengers from a vacation in Thailand. The aircraft crashed on the runway, leading to a devastating explosion, with only two survivors escaping.
In their quest for clarity, many families express dissatisfaction about the lack of transparency. They are particularly concerned about unanswered questions, including the reported bird strike prior to landing, why the aircraft touched down without deploying its landing gear, and the design inadequacies of the berm that caused the crash.
Determined to uncover the truth, some relatives are delving into the intricacies of aviation safety by studying relevant literature and resources. They are exploring various topics such as flight recorder functionality, air traffic control protocols, and even airport design, aiming to piece together the events that led to that fateful day.
As the community of grieving families continues to grow, their collective strength and determination to seek justice and answers highlight a deeply human response to tragedy and loss.