The Jeju Air crash occurred on December 29, 2023, when a regional jet operated by the airline skidded off the runway at Muan International Airport, causing it to crash into a wall and ignite a fireball that engulfed the aircraft. The incident, which resulted in the deaths of all 178 passengers and crew, sent shockwaves across South Korea and raised urgent questions about aviation safety and regulatory oversight.
Families of the victims, many of whom were tourists and local residents, have voiced growing frustration with the pace and transparency of the investigation. With nearly a year having passed since the crash, they have repeatedly called for a public hearing to examine the circumstances of the disaster and hold those responsible accountable. Critics argue that the inquiry board has been unresponsive to public demands for information, raising concerns about its credibility and impartiality.
In response to mounting pressure, officials announced plans to hold a public hearing, a move that has been met with cautious optimism by some families, though many remain skeptical about the depth of the inquiry. The hearing is expected to draw attention to potential safety lapses, human error, and broader systemic issues in South Korean aviation. As the investigation unfolds, the incident continues to underscore the importance of accountability and transparency in aviation safety protocols.