MUAN – A devastating plane crash at Muan Airport in southwestern South Korea has claimed the lives of at least 96 people, with 181 individuals on board. The Jeju Air passenger plane, coming from Bangkok, attempted to land at the regional airport, but crashed under unclear circumstances, triggering a massive emergency response.

According to South Korean officials, the plane was a commercial airliner, carrying a total of 181 passengers and crew members. Initial reports suggest the explosion occurred shortly after landing when the plane failed to stay on course and veered off the runway.

Immediate Response

Emergency services, including fire trucks, ambulances, and rescue teams, were immediately dispatched to the crash site after the aircraft’s emergency signals were detected. Several survivors were rescued from the wreckage, but many were critically injured. The crash site has been cordoned off as emergency workers continue to search for additional survivors and secure the area.

“We are still in the process of identifying the exact number of fatalities and survivors,” said an official from South Korea’s National Fire Agency. “Search and rescue operations are ongoing, and we are doing everything we can to assist the injured.”

Investigating the Cause

South Korean aviation authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the crash. Early speculation suggests that weather conditions, which included strong winds and rain, may have played a role in the incident. However, the exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, and experts are analyzing the aircraft’s flight data recorders.

Muan Airport, a smaller regional hub located about 300 kilometers southwest of Seoul, has a single runway and typically handles domestic flights. The airport has been temporarily closed to air traffic, with delays expected for incoming and outgoing flights throughout the day.

National Mourning and International Attention

The tragedy has prompted a wave of national grief, with President Jiho Park expressing condolences to the victims’ families. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic incident, and our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones. The government is committed to providing full support to the families and ensuring that a thorough investigation is conducted.”

The crash has also drawn international attention, with several foreign governments expressing condolences. The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that the passenger list is being reviewed to identify any foreign nationals who may have been on board.

Ongoing Developments

Authorities are expected to provide an updated casualty count and further details on the investigation as the day progresses. The airline involved has confirmed that they are cooperating fully with the authorities and assisting with identifying the passengers and crew.

As the situation develops, more information will be made available, including the identities of those involved and the final cause of the crash. (zai)   – UPDATE 2 –