World Leaders Extend Condolences Over South Korea’s Deadliest Plane Crash.
Global leaders have expressed profound sorrow and sympathy following South Korea’s deadliest plane crash, which claimed 179 lives when a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed at Muan International Airport. Only two crew members survived the tragedy.
The aircraft, which was arriving from Bangkok, Thailand, skidded off the runway and collided with a wall before bursting into flames. Families of the victims gathered at the airport in grief as condolences poured in from across the world.
China Expresses Shock
Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed his shock and sorrow to South Korea’s acting president Choi Sang-mok. He extended “deep condolences to the victims, sincere sympathy for their families, and wishes for the injured to recover swiftly.”
European Union Offers Support
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen shared her heartbreak, stating, “As your partner, Europe stands with you in this time of grief.”
Pope Francis Offers Prayers
During a Vatican address, Pope Francis expressed solidarity with the victims and their families, saying, “My thoughts are with the many families in South Korea who are mourning today following the dramatic plane crash.”
Global Tributes Continue
– France: Paris sent its condolences to affected families, describing the crash as having a “terrible toll.”
– Germany: President Frank-Walter Steinmeier lamented the “incredible loss” and acknowledged the pain of a nation already enduring political turmoil.
– Greece: The Greek foreign ministry expressed its profound sadness, extending sympathies during this difficult time.
– Iran: Tehran conveyed condolences to both South Korea and Thailand, noting the loss of two Thai nationals onboard.
– Turkey: President Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed deep sadness, referring to South Korea as a “friend.”
– Spain: Madrid shared its solidarity with those affected, calling the incident a “terrible accident.”
IATA and Aviation Community React
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) expressed its shock and sadness over the tragedy, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with the passengers and crew on the flight and their loved ones.”
A Nation in Mourning
The crash has left South Korea grappling with the enormity of its worst aviation disaster. Investigations into the cause of the crash are underway, with early reports suggesting a potential bird strike as a contributing factor.
As tributes continue to pour in, the world stands united with South Korea in mourning the lives lost in this devastating tragedy.
