Two flight attendants were the sole survivors of a tragic plane crash in South Korea that claimed the lives of 179 people.
Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 burst into flames “during landing” at Muan International Airport around 9:03 a.m. local time on Sunday, Dec. 29, as stated in a translated Instagram post by the airline’s CEO, Kim E-bae.
The aircraft, carrying 181 individuals — 175 passengers and six crew members — was en route from Bangkok when it “veered off the runway” upon landing and “collided” with a concrete barrier, according to local authorities cited by Yonhap News Agency and CNN.
Out of all aboard, only two crew members, both flight attendants, survived, Yonhap confirmed.
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One of the survivors, a 33-year-old flight attendant, is currently receiving treatment at Ewha Womans University Seoul Hospital.
During a press conference, hospital director Ju Woong confirmed the man is “fully able to communicate” and showed “no signs of memory loss or related issues.”
The crash site of the Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, which erupted in flames after veering off the runway, was captured at Muan International Airport, approximately 288 kilometers southwest of Seoul, on December 30, 2024.
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According to Ju, the survivor recounted, “When I woke up, I had already been rescued.”
The second survivor, a 25-year-old flight attendant, is being treated at Asan Medical Center. Reports from Yonhap indicate she is in stable condition with injuries to her ankle and head.
Muan fire chief Lee Jeong-Hyun suggested the crash was likely caused by a combination of a “bird strike and adverse weather conditions,” as reported by The Guardian. He added that the exact cause will be determined through a joint investigation.
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“I extend my deepest condolences and heartfelt apologies to the passengers and their families affected by this devastating tragedy,” said Kim E-bae, CEO of Jeju Air, in a formal statement released by the airline.
E-bae acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the cause of the crash, emphasizing the need to await findings from an official government-led investigation. “At this stage, determining the exact cause of the accident is challenging. We must rely on the thorough investigation by the relevant government agency to provide clarity,” he stated.
The CEO also expressed his personal accountability for the incident, regardless of its underlying causes. “As the CEO of Jeju Air, I bear the responsibility for what has happened, regardless of the investigation’s outcome. Our airline will collaborate fully with government authorities to uncover the truth behind this tragic event,” he assured.
E-bae further pledged that Jeju Air would prioritize the families of the victims and survivors, offering support and assistance during this painful time. “We remain committed to addressing the needs of those impacted, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve,” he said.
This statement reflects the airline’s commitment to transparency and accountability, promising a thorough response to this heartbreaking accident that has left many grieving.
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