Governor Kim Youngrok: "The Truth Behind the December 29 Passenger Plane Disaster Must Be Revealed"

"Doing Our Utmost to Support Victims
Through Ongoing Communication with Bereaved Families"

Kim Youngrok, Governor of Jeollanam-do, is laying a wreath at the memorial rally for the December 29 Jeju Air passenger plane disaster held on the 27th at the Gwangju 5·18 Democracy Square. Provided by Jeonnam Province

Kim Youngrok, Governor of Jeollanam-do, attended the "December 29 Passenger Plane Disaster Gwangju-Jeonnam Citizens' Memorial Rally" held on the 27th at Gwangju 5·18 Democracy Square, where he offered his condolences to the bereaved families.

The memorial event, which was attended by citizens from both the city and province, took place prior to the official memorial ceremony for the December 29 passenger plane disaster and was organized primarily by the bereaved families’ association and civic groups. Participants honored the memory of the 179 victims of the disaster and reaffirmed their social commitment to uncovering the truth and preventing a recurrence.

More than 1,000 people attended the event, including bereaved families, local government officials, members of the National Assembly, civic organizations, and citizens from both Gwangju and Jeonnam. The ceremony proceeded with a moment of silence, a memorial video screening, memorial addresses, and a safety pledge.

In his memorial address, Governor Kim Youngrok stated, "I deeply mourn the loss of the 179 victims, and I sincerely offer words of comfort to the bereaved families who have endured each day in the time that stopped one year ago. Although a year has passed, it is heartbreaking that the truth of that day still remains stalled beyond a cold ridge."

He continued, "I sincerely hope that the truth will be fully revealed through every process, including the National Assembly’s parliamentary investigation, the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board’s inquiry, and the police investigation, leaving no doubts unresolved. I will do my utmost to support the daily recovery of the bereaved families, including livelihood support, psychological counseling, and care."

Meanwhile, Jeonnam Province has set up and is operating a joint incense altar at the provincial government office so that residents can remember and mourn the disaster. The province will continue to communicate with the bereaved families, provide the best possible support to the victims, and actively work to strengthen safety at Muan International Airport.