Bodies of Jeju Air crash victims released  to families

MUAN: Authorities began handing over the bodies of victims from the tragic Jeju Air crash to their families on Tuesday, as investigations gained momentum to uncover the cause of the Boeing 737-800’s crash landing and subsequent fire.

US investigators, including experts from Boeing, have joined South Korean officials at the crash site in Muan. Two black boxes recovered from the charred wreckage are under examination.

The aircraft, carrying 181 passengers from Thailand to South Korea, issued a mayday call before belly-landing, crashing into a barrier, and erupting in flames. Tragically, all but two flight attendants onboard were killed.

South Korea is observing a seven-day mourning period, with flags at half-mast.

FIRST BODIES RELEASED TO FAMILIES

Transport Minister Park Sang-woo announced that four bodies had been handed over for funerals, with more to follow as identification and autopsy processes continue.

Among the victims was an extended family of nine, including the plane’s oldest passenger, who was celebrating his first overseas trip for his birthday. The sole survivor of the family, a son-in-law who did not join the trip, is left to cope with the devastating loss.

Acting President Choi Sang-mok, in office for less than a week, described the crash as a “turning point” for national air safety. He called for a comprehensive review of aviation operations and immediate improvements where necessary.

Marking the year’s end, Choi urged citizens to reflect on the past year’s challenges and prepare for the future.

At Muan Airport, investigators examined the wreckage while soldiers searched the surrounding fields. Meanwhile, mourners left offerings, including letters and food, near the airport perimeter.

“Captain, first officer, and crew, thank you for doing your best to save the passengers. I pray for your eternal rest,” read one note left on the airport fence.

Inside the airport, grieving families, waiting for updates, expressed frustration over delays in identifying victims.

INVESTIGATION FOCUS: BLACK BOXES

Investigators are working to analyze the black boxes for insights into the crash. Deputy Civil Aviation Minister Joo Jong-wan confirmed that surface cleaning of the flight data recorder is complete, but its data storage unit remains under evaluation due to a missing connector.

Technical teams are determining how to retrieve the critical data to understand the aircraft’s final moments.

Memorial altars have been set up nationwide, including a new one at Muan Airport, where grieving families are paying their respects amidst a sea of black-and-white funeral flowers.

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