Leaders from around the world expressed their grief and solidarity with South Korea following the tragic airplane crash in Muan, which claimed the lives of over 170 people.
Global Leaders Respond
In a statement from the White House, US President Joe Biden extended his condolences and pledged support to South Korea:
“Jill and I are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life that occurred as a result of the Jeju Airlines accident in Muan, Republic of Korea. As close allies, the American people share deep bonds of friendship with the South Korean people, and our thoughts and prayers are with those impacted by this tragedy. The United States stands ready to provide any necessary assistance.”
Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru conveyed his sympathies to the bereaved families, stating:
“I am deeply saddened by the loss of many precious lives due to the airplane accident that occurred in the ROK. On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I wish to express my sincere condolences for the loss of life and send my deepest sympathies to the bereaved families. My thoughts go out to all those who were injured, and I sincerely hope they will make a swift recovery.”
India’s External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, also expressed sorrow over the incident, as did David Lammy, the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs, and Penny Wong, Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs.
The Tragedy
South Korean authorities confirmed the loss of 179 lives, with two survivors out of the 181 aboard the Jeju Air flight. The incident occurred on Sunday morning when the plane belly-landed and exploded at Muan International Airport, as reported by Yonhap News Agency.
The aircraft veered off the runway during landing, its landing gear failing to deploy. It skidded across the ground, hit a concrete wall, and burst into flames.
South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-mok, declared Muan County a special disaster zone and visited the crash site to oversee search operations.
Jeju Air’s Response
Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae apologized and expressed condolences to the victims’ families, taking full responsibility for the tragedy. The airline pledged comprehensive support, including financial assistance through a USD 1 billion insurance plan.
“Regardless of the cause, I take full responsibility as the CEO,” Kim stated.
A United Response
The Muan plane crash has prompted an outpouring of support and condolences from leaders worldwide, highlighting the shared grief and solidarity during this tragic time for South Korea.