The Jeju Air flight 7C2216 crash at Muan International Airport on Sunday, December 29, left only two survivors out of 181 passengers and crew. The Boeing 737-800, traveling from Bangkok, Thailand, attempted an emergency landing in Muan, South Korea, but skidded without landing gear, hit a concrete wall, and burst into flames. Eyewitnesses reported “a series of explosions” and “metallic scraping” as the plane crashed. Over 1,500 emergency personnel were deployed for recovery efforts.
The survivors, both crew members, were found in the tail, the only recognizable part of the plane. The male attendant, Lee, 32, was rescued in a disoriented state, repeatedly asking, “What happened?” and “Why am I here?” Lee, who had been wearing his seatbelt, sustained head injuries and a fractured shoulder. A hospital official suggested he may have been in a panic, worrying about passengers’ safety.
The other survivor, Kwon, 25, also could not recall the crash. Currently treated for abdominal, ankle, and head injuries, she sustained a fractured ankle and a scalp laceration. Despite her condition, doctors confirmed her life is not in danger.
The crash has raised questions about the circumstances, but both survivors are recovering under medical care.