Muan, South Korea — A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded early Monday morning as Jeju Air Flight 2216, en route from Bangkok, Thailand, to South Korea, crashed while attempting to land at Muan International Airport. South Korean authorities have confirmed that 179 of the 181 passengers and crew on board are presumed dead in what is now one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korean history.
The flight, a routine international route operated by Jeju Air, was nearing its final descent when contact with air traffic control was suddenly lost. Moments later, a massive explosion and thick plumes of smoke were reported near the airport’s outer perimeter, where the wreckage was later discovered scattered and engulfed in flames.
Emergency response teams raced to the crash site and began the arduous and emotional task of searching for survivors. Miraculously, two individuals were pulled from the debris alive and are now receiving intensive medical care. Their conditions remain critical, and officials have not yet released their identities.
“We are deeply shaken and overwhelmed with grief,” said a spokesperson from South Korea’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport. “This is a national tragedy. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of every soul lost in this devastating crash.”
Rescue and recovery efforts continued through the night, with military and medical personnel assisting in combing through the remains of the aircraft and providing support for the victims’ families. Investigators from the South Korean aviation safety board and international agencies are on site to determine what went wrong during the landing.
Jeju Air, in a brief and somber statement, expressed “profound sorrow” for the lives lost and pledged full cooperation with investigators:
“We are devastated by this tragic accident and are doing everything we can to support the families affected. We mourn the loss of our passengers and colleagues.”
As the country mourns, makeshift memorials are already appearing at major transportation hubs and near the airport. Candles, flowers, and handwritten messages from strangers and loved ones alike express a shared anguish and disbelief.
Flight 2216 was carrying a mix of South Korean nationals and international travelers returning home or visiting for summer holidays. Among those presumed dead are families, students, business travelers, and crew members who had dedicated their lives to aviation.
Flags across the country are being lowered to half-staff as South Korea enters a period of national mourning.
A routine journey ended in unspeakable sorrow. Jeju Air Flight 2216 will forever be remembered for the lives it carried — and the heartbreak it leaves behind.