179 dead after Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashes off runway in Muan, South Korea

A Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, operating as Flight 7C2216 from Bangkok, Thailand, crashed while attempting to land at Muan International Airport in South Korea on Sunday morning.

Rescue teams initially reported two survivors—a passenger and a crew member—were found in the tail section of the aircraft.

However, in a devastating update, the Jeollanam-do Fire Department announced to the families of passengers at Muan Airport that all other 179 souls onboard had perished in the accident.

Muan International Airport (MWX), located in South Jeolla Province in the country's southwest, serves as a regional hub for domestic and international flights.

The Boeing 737-800 aircraft, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members, veered off the runway during landing, struck a wall, and broke into two sections before erupting into flames.

Emergency responders have reported heavy fire damage, with rescue efforts focusing on the rear section of the aircraft, where passengers may still be trapped.

Local officials confirmed that two survivors—a passenger and a crew member—have been rescued. However, authorities fear the death toll could rise as critical rescue operations continue.

Images from the scene show thick black smoke billowing from the wreckage as firefighters and medical teams work to stabilize the situation.

Some experts speculate that the crash may have been caused by a bird strike that damaged the landing gear.

This theory stems from the fact that both engines of the aircraft showed irregularities before it veered off the runway, and the plane’s landing gear was not fully deployed before impact.

The front landing gear was only partially extended, while the main landing gear was completely retracted.

Aviation safety officials, along with Jeju Air representatives, are conducting a full probe to determine the exact circumstances of the incident.

South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-mok, has ordered an all-out rescue effort and directed all relevant agencies to prioritize saving lives.

His office convened an emergency meeting to coordinate the response to the tragedy.

However, South Korea’s political instability raises questions about the efficiency of the government’s response.

This is the third time in less than two weeks that an acting president has assumed office.

President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached on December 14, and Prime Minister Han Duck-soo, who had been carrying out presidential duties, was impeached on December 27.

With the country in political turmoil, there are concerns about whether the government can operate at full capacity during this crisis.