K-Pop Industry Mourns After Jeju Air Tragedy

The nation is in mourning following the tragic crash of Jeju Air flight 7C2216, which occurred on December 29, 2024, as it was attempting to land at Muan Airport after departing from Bangkok, Thailand. The aircraft, carrying 181 individuals including 173 South Korean passengers, 6 crew members, and 2 Thai passengers, tragically crashed upon landing, resulting in a fire after colliding with the runway's outer wall. After extensive overnight search efforts, authorities confirmed that only 2 crew members survived, while the remaining 179 passengers and crew perished, marking this incident as one of the deadliest aviation disasters in South Korea's history.

In response to this tragedy, the South Korean government has declared a national mourning period lasting until January 4, 2025, at midnight, focusing on recovering the deceased and investigating the cause of the accident.

The K-pop industry has joined the nation in mourning, with many artists postponing album releases and canceling performances. IVE, set to release their third EP, 'IVE EMPATHY,' on February 3, announced a delay in their promotional activities. Their agency, Starship Entertainment, stated, "The promotional schedule for 'IVE THE 3rd EP 'IVE EMPATHY' has been postponed, and we will announce the new upload schedule later."

Similarly, the unit group BSS from SEVENTEEN also postponed the release of their official photos for their upcoming single album 'TELEPARTY,' which was scheduled for December 30, expressing their condolences to fans.

LE SSERAFIM decided to delay the release of member Heo Yunjin's self-composed song 'Jellyfish,' which was set for December 30, due to the unfortunate incident.

Concert cancellations have also been widespread. Jo Yong-pil's concert, scheduled for January 4 to celebrate his 20th album, has been postponed in solidarity with the national mourning period. Lee Seung-hwan canceled his concert in Cheonan, expressing his condolences on social media with a photo of white chrysanthemums.

The group NCT Dream announced that while they cannot postpone the release of their new album 'Love Potion,' they have canceled their showcase originally planned for January 2.

Other artists, including Jay Park, have canceled their appearances at events, while Kim Jang-hoon has called off his concerts in Suncheon and on a cruise in Ulleung. Lee Seung-chul has postponed his Busan concert to March due to an influenza A diagnosis, and Ali has also decided to delay her 20th-anniversary concert in Gwangju.

Despite the heavy atmosphere, some groups like NewJeans have chosen to proceed with their scheduled activities in Japan, stating, "We are continuing with our plans after considering the impact on the organizers, but we feel heavy-hearted about it. We ask for fans' understanding."

NewJeans previously shared a photo on social media wearing black ribbons to honor the victims, stating, "We wear these ribbons with a heart of mourning."

LE SSERAFIM also confirmed their participation in overseas schedules while maintaining their commitment to remember the victims. ITZY, departing for their overseas schedule, was seen in all-black outfits, reflecting the somber mood as they headed to the airport.