Seoul, August 11: South Korea is reeling from one of its deadliest aviation disasters, the Jeju Air crash of 2024, which claimed the lives of 179 passengers. In response, the government has initiated a formal investigation into the incident.
According to Yonhap News Agency, police conducted raids on the Korea Airports Corporation (KAC), the Ministry of Transport, and the Busan Regional Aviation Office on Tuesday. This operation aimed to gather crucial documents and evidence related to the crash.
The tragic accident occurred on December 29, 2024, at Muan International Airport. As one of South Korea’s most catastrophic aviation incidents, the investigation is now focusing on whether the relevant governmental and aviation agencies fulfilled their responsibilities adequately.
A special police investigation team stated that the purpose of the raids was to obtain documents and materials that could shed light on the actions taken by the involved agencies before and after the accident.
The investigation currently encompasses 45 individuals suspected of professional negligence leading to death or injury. Police have indicated that, based on the findings, additional charges related to causing a serious public disaster may also be filed against them.
The Korea Airports Corporation manages most major domestic airports in South Korea, although Incheon International Airport is not included in its jurisdiction. Therefore, records related to KAC and aviation administration are deemed critical for the investigation.
Authorities are now trying to determine if there were any lapses in security measures, emergency responses, or administrative procedures at Muan Airport at the time of the accident that could have exacerbated the disaster’s consequences.
Since the incident, questions have arisen regarding aviation safety protocols and preparedness at Muan Airport. The recent raids suggest that investigative agencies are not only focusing on the technical causes of the crash but are also moving towards establishing accountability for potential administrative and professional negligence.
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