South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol on Sunday expressed his deep sorrow over the tragic plane crash at Muan International Airport, marking his first public statement since his executive powers were suspended.
In a Facebook post uploaded at around 6:40 p.m. Sunday, Yoon expressed heartfelt condolences to the victims' families. "I am deeply saddened and devastated by this tragedy," he wrote. "I extend my heartfelt condolences and sympathy to those who lost their loved ones and to the bereaved families."
Around 9:03 a.m. Sunday, Jeju Air flight 7C 2216, carrying 181 people, veered off the runway while attempting to land at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province. The plane overshot the runway, collided with the perimeter fence, and failed to decelerate, bursting into flames. As of 7 p.m. Sunday, 176 fatalities were confirmed, with only two survivors reported.
Yoon's message came after a prolonged silence following the National Assembly's passage of a motion to impeach him on Dec. 14, which led to his suspension from office. This was Yoon’s first official statement on a matter of state since the suspension.
"I trust that the government will do its utmost in managing the aftermath of the accident and supporting the victims," Yoon continued. He also emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of firefighters and all rescue personnel working under challenging circumstances.
"I will stand with the people to overcome this challenging situation as swiftly as possible," he added.
Yoon is currently under investigation for alleged insurrection related to his brief declaration of martial law on Dec. 3. His impeachment is set to be deliberated by the Constitutional Court, which is tasked with upholding or overturning it.
