A devastating plane crash at Muan International Airport on Sunday has claimed the lives of 177 passengers and crew.
South Korean authorities confirmed two individuals remain missing, while two crew members were miraculously rescued from the fiery wreckage.
The ill-fated Boeing 737-800, operated by Jeju Air, was carrying 181 people when it erupted in flames during a landing attempt.
Officials report the aircraft experienced landing gear failure, skidding across the runway and slamming into a concrete wall with explosive force.
Footage captured by local media showed the plane engulfed in flames, scattering debris across the tarmac in the chaotic aftermath.
The flight, returning from Bangkok, carried 93 women, 82 men, and six crew members, with passengers ranging in age from three to 78.
Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene, with one resident noting sparks on the plane’s wing moments before the deafening explosion.
Local authorities stated the control tower had warned of a bird strike just before the aircraft’s attempted landing.
In a heartbreaking revelation, Jeju Air’s CEO, Kim E-bae, issued an apology, adding that investigations into the cause are ongoing.
Emergency crews continue the grim task of recovering remains, as officials describe the wreckage as nearly unrecognizable.
