At the scene of the plane crash in Man International Airport, South Korea. ARCHIVE

Flags flew at half-mast across South Korea on Monday (December 30) as the nation entered a seven-day mourning period following a tragic plane crash that killed 179 people at Muan International Airport. The crash on Sunday (December 29) involved Jeju Air flight 7C2216, which erupted into a fireball after a failed landing attempt. The twin-engine Boeing 737-800 was en route from Bangkok, Thailand, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members when it belly-landed and skidded into a wall. Video footage showed the aircraft with no visible landing gear before the explosion, leaving only the tail section somewhat recognizable. Two crew members, a man and a woman, were rescued from the tail section of the burning aircraft. They are currently receiving treatment for severe injuries. “Only the tail part retains a little bit of shape; the rest is almost impossible to recognize,” said Lee Jung-hyun, Muan's fire chief. The South Korean government has pledged a thorough investigation. President Yoon Suk-yeol visited the crash site, offering condolences to victims' families and assuring transparency in the probe. Transportation Minister Kim Hyeon-mi confirmed the formation of a special task force to analyze the incident. The UAE expressed its solidarity with South Korea. In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs conveyed “sincere condolences and sympathy with South Korea and its people, and to the families of the victims of this tragedy.” Emergency responders were commended for their swift action. Over 200 firefighters worked tirelessly to extinguish the flames and secure the site This tragedy is South Korea's deadliest aviation accident. Local airlines are now under scrutiny, with calls for stricter safety measures. The transport ministry has grounded Jeju Air flights pending safety inspections. Victim identification is ongoing, with counseling services provided to grieving families. Public memorials have been set up nationwide, where citizens have been paying their respects. ICA/Expat Media
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