On the first anniversary of South Korea’s deadliest aviation disaster, President Lee Jae Myung issued a formal apology and committed to uncovering the complete truth behind the Jeju Air tragedy that claimed 179 lives. The catastrophic incident occurred on December 29, 2024, when Flight 501 crash-landed at Muan International Airport, erupting into flames after impacting an embankment at runway’s end. Only two survivors emerged from the wreckage of the aircraft carrying 181 people.
President Lee acknowledged systemic failures in national safety protocols, stating, ‘As president who bears the responsibility to protect lives and safety, I offer my deepest apologies. This disaster revealed the systematic problems and limitations of our society.’ He emphasized that ‘real change and action’ rather than ‘perfunctory promises or empty words’ were necessary moving forward.
Despite a preliminary January report from the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board citing bird strikes affecting both engines, critical questions remain unanswered. Investigations have been delayed regarding potential safety lapses, runway design deficiencies at Muan International, and the pilots’ final actions before impact.
Victims’ families continue demanding accountability as parliamentary reviews advance plans to overhaul the accident investigation board to ensure greater independence and technical expertise. Memorial services are scheduled at the crash site in southwestern South Korea, where relatives will commemorate the tragedy that has prompted nationwide scrutiny of aviation safety standards.