South Korean authorities have launched an investigation into the role of a concrete barrier at the end of Muan airport’s runway in the nation’s worst aviation disaster, which claimed 179 lives.
The authorities revealed this development on Tuesday.
The crash involved a Jeju Air jet that collided with the barrier while attempting to land, leaving only two survivors—both flight attendants rescued from the wreckage.
The Boeing 737-800, en route from Thailand to South Korea with 181 passengers and crew, issued a mayday before belly-landing, hitting the barrier, and erupting into flames.
US investigators, including Boeing representatives, have joined the inquiry, while South Korean officials analyse the black boxes retrieved from the charred remains of the aircraft.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok, who assumed office days before the incident, described it as a “turning point” and called for a comprehensive overhaul of the nation’s aviation safety protocols. “We must thoroughly re-examine the overall aircraft operation system… and address any necessary improvements immediately,” he said.
While a bird strike was initially suggested as a possible cause, experts have also pointed to the barrier. Dramatic footage captured the aircraft bursting into flames upon impact.
The Director-General for Airport Policy, Kim Hong-rak, stated the government would “review the relevant regulations and their application” regarding the barrier’s composition. Deputy Minister for Civil Aviation Joo Jong-wan emphasized the need to investigate all factors, saying, “At this stage, it is important to avoid focusing solely on any particular factor as the definitive cause of the accident.”
Jeju Air CEO Speaks
Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae dismissed concerns over maintenance issues, saying there were “no specific or unusual issues during the maintenance process” of the aircraft. Regarding the landing gear, he noted, “That is directly related to the accident investigation, and we are not in a position to know at this time.”
National Mourning
The tragedy has plunged South Korea into mourning, with New Year celebrations cancelled and flags lowered to half-mast.
Families of the victims, many of whom were holidaymakers returning from Bangkok, have begun receiving the bodies of their loved ones, though delays in identification have sparked frustration. “Of the 179 victims, the bodies of four have completed the handover procedures to their bereaved families for funerals,” said Transport Minister Park Sang-woo.
One family lost nine members, including the oldest passenger aboard—a grandfather on his first overseas trip to celebrate his birthday. His wife, children, and grandchildren perished, leaving behind only one son-in-law who had stayed behind. “The village chief said the son-in-law was in utter despair, saying, ‘I should have gone with them and died with them,’” reported KBC.
Black Box Analysis
Investigators are working to retrieve data from the black boxes, with one unit found damaged and missing a connector. “Surface contamination cleaning has been completed, and its condition is currently being assessed,” Deputy Minister Joo said. He added that technical reviews are ongoing to extract flight data.
Memorial altars have been set up across the country, including at Muan airport, where relatives of the victims remain gathered, awaiting answers.
Many have left offerings, including food and letters, in remembrance of the victims. One note read, “Captain, first officer, and crew members, thank you so much for doing your best to save the passengers. I pray for your eternal rest.”
