Families of the deceased from a catastrophic Jeju Air crash on December 29 have escalated their demands for accountability by filing a criminal complaint against 15 individuals, including the airline's CEO, Kim E-bae, and South Korea's transport minister. This tragic incident, involving a Boeing 737-800 that fatally impacted Muan International Airport, resulted in the loss of 179 lives, marking it as the deadliest aviation disaster in South Korean history.
The complaint, lodged by 72 bereaved relatives, underscores their assertion that the crash was not merely accidental but rather a profound civic disaster stemming from gross administrative negligence. Five months after the tragedy, concerns are mounting over the slow-moving investigation as families express their discontent. Kim Da-hye, a relative of one of the victims, voiced their collective grief and desire for justice, stating, “We are filled with deep anger and despair... we will continue to pursue the truth.”
The complaint highlights the need for scrutiny regarding the crash's context. Key figures named include both airline and government personnel responsible for areas such as air traffic control, airport management, and bird strike prevention measures. It questions whether appropriate protocols were followed leading up to the incident, particularly following the pilots’ report of a bird strike shortly before declaration of an emergency.
As investigations proceed, authorities have reported discovering bird feathers within the aircraft's engines, yet remain inconclusive regarding their impact on the crash. Additionally, harassment against some bereaved families online, criticizing their pursuit of justice, has emerged, with several individuals arrested for sharing falsehoods on social media.
As the families continue to seek justice, they emphasize an unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth behind the tragic events of that fateful day.
