Police Form Investigation Headquarters for Muan Aircraft Accident... 169 Forensic Experts Dispatched (Comprehensive)

Support for Victim Identification

The National Police Agency announced on the 29th that it has formed an investigation headquarters for the aircraft accident at Muan Airport in Jeonnam.

At Muan International Airport, firefighters are clearing debris at the runway accident site 29 days after a Jeju Air passenger plane carrying 181 passengers collided with the outer wall of the runway during landing, causing a fire that resulted in a major disaster with most passengers dying.

The National Police Agency explained, "Currently, 579 officers are deployed, and 169 forensic investigators have been dispatched to assist in identifying the victims."

The Jeonnam Provincial Police Agency formed an investigation headquarters consisting of 264 personnel, led by the head of the investigation department. The investigation headquarters plans to work with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board to determine the cause of the accident. A Jeonnam police official stated, "We will conduct a swift and strict investigation based on law and principles, and also make every effort to support the bereaved families and victims."

The police have declared the highest emergency level, 'Gapho Emergency,' in the Muan area of Jeonnam, and 'Eulho Emergency' in the neighboring Hampyeong and Mokpo areas. Under Gapho Emergency, police officers' leave is suspended, and 100% of available police forces can be mobilized. Under Eulho Emergency, leave is suspended and up to 50% of available police forces can be mobilized. Acting Commissioner Lee Ho-young of the National Police Agency instructed, "Mobilize all available forces, including the duty rapid response teams, to thoroughly support emergency rescue efforts and share real-time information among related agencies such as fire departments, local governments, and the airport."

According to the Fire Agency, at 9:03 a.m. on the same day, a passenger plane, Jeju Air flight 7C2216 from Bangkok, Thailand, reported an accident while attempting to land on the runway at Muan International Airport. The aircraft was carrying a total of 181 people, including 175 passengers and 6 crew members. Except for the tail section, the aircraft was burned to the extent that its shape was unrecognizable. Except for two rescued crew members, most of the occupants are presumed dead.