Tragic Plane Crash at Muan Airport Sparks Mourning Across South Korea

On December 29, a devastating incident occurred at Muan International Airport in Jeollanam-do, South Korea, when a Jeju Air flight 7C2216 from Bangkok attempted to land but collided with a fence. The aircraft was severely damaged upon impact with the runway's outer wall, resulting in a fire that consumed most of the plane, leaving only the tail section intact. Tragically, 179 lives were lost, while 2 individuals were rescued.

In the wake of this tragedy, many broadcasting stations canceled their scheduled programming, but radio stations continued to air live shows, paying tribute to the victims and their families. On December 30, during KBS Cool FM's 'Park Myung-soo's Radio Show' (박명수의 라디오쇼), host Park Myung-soo expressed his sorrow, stating, "There was heartbreaking news of a tragic accident yesterday. I extend my deepest condolences to all the deceased and hope we can find comfort in one another during this difficult time."

He emphasized the importance of supporting each other, saying, "We must gather our strength and continue living. I urge the families of the victims to stay strong, and I hope that information regarding the situation is communicated with sensitivity to their feelings."

Similarly, on SBS Power FM's 'Escape from Two O'Clock' (두시탈출 컬투쇼), host Kim Tae-kyun opened the show with a somber tone, remarking, "Today, we start quietly without an audience. The footage and images from the Jeju Air crash at Muan International Airport were shocking and left me feeling heavy-hearted. This year has been incredibly challenging, from the state of emergency to this tragic accident."

At the same time, MBC FM4U's 'Two O'Clock Date' (두시의 데이트) host Ahn Young-mi became emotional upon learning that one of the youngest victims was a child. She shared, "As a mother, seeing the news about the child breaks my heart. I can't help but cry. I hope that even as the sun rises, we do not forget the sorrow of today. Let's remember the victims."

Later in the day, on MBC FM4U's 'A Perfect Day with Lee Sang-soon' (완벽한 하루 이상순입니다), DJ Lee Sang-soon encouraged listeners to connect with friends and family during this tough time, sharing, "Don't isolate yourself. Meeting loved ones and sharing your feelings is a way to return to normalcy. My wife has been a great source of comfort for me."

Wendy, hosting SBS Power FM's 'Wendy's Young Street' (웬디의 영스트리트), also conveyed her condolences, stating, "We often express our care for those around us as 'putting our hearts into it.' Now is the time to do just that. The more we share our heartfelt support, the more it will resonate. I sincerely wish to extend my condolences to the families of the deceased."

As the entertainment industry mourns this sudden tragedy at the year's end, the government has declared a national mourning period until January 4 at midnight.