World leaders have united in offering condolences following the tragic plane crash in Muan, South Korea, which claimed the lives of over 170 people.
In a statement on Sunday, US President Joe Biden expressed sorrow over the accident. He assured South Korea of America’s full support. “Jill and I are deeply saddened by the loss of life in the Jeju Airlines accident. As close allies, we stand with South Korea in this time of grief,” Biden said. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, and we are ready to assist in any way.”
Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru also expressed his sympathy. “I am heartbroken by this tragedy. On behalf of Japan, I offer my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and wish the injured a speedy recovery,” he stated.
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India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, joined other leaders in offering condolences. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy and Australia’s Foreign Minister Penny Wong also expressed their sorrow over the loss.
Chinese President Xi Jinping sent his condolences to South Korea’s acting President, Choi Sang-mok. “We are shocked by the crash. Our hearts are with the victims and their families,” Xi said.
Singapore’s Foreign Ministry expressed sadness, confirming no Singaporeans were aboard the flight. The EU’s Ursula von der Leyen called the crash “heartbreaking,” and Pope Francis shared his prayers with the affected families.
The plane crash, involving Jeju Air Flight 2216, occurred on Sunday morning at Muan International Airport. The aircraft skidded off the runway and exploded after its landing gear failed to deploy. Of the 181 people on board, 179 died, with two survivors rescued.
South Korea’s acting President declared Muan County a special disaster zone and visited the crash site to oversee search efforts. Jeju Air CEO Kim E-bae took full responsibility for the incident and promised financial assistance to the victims’ families.
“Regardless of the cause, I take full responsibility,” said Kim, expressing heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families.