New Delhi: India on Sunday said it was “deeply saddened” on Sunday upon learning about the plane crash in Muan city, South Korea, which has claimed the lives of at least 160 people so far. “Deeply saddened to learn of the tragic plane crash at Muan airport today. We extend our heartfelt condolences to bereaved family members. The Indian Embassy stands in solidarity with the people & government of RoK in this difficult hour,” said Amit Kumar, India’s ambassador to Seoul in a post on X.
“The entire government is collaborating closely to handle the aftermath of this accident, using every available resource and ensuring comprehensive support for the grieving families,” Choi said. “No words can truly console the bereaved families who have endured such a tragedy,” he added.
Boeing 737-800 crash
A 15-year-old Boeing 737-800 passenger plane returning from Bangkok lost control during landing when its landing gear reportedly failed to deploy. The aircraft skidded off the runway, collided with a concrete fence, and erupted into flames.
Crash footage reveals the plane’s landing gear remained retracted as it attempted to touch down. The collision with the wall triggered an explosion, engulfing the aircraft in flames. According to South Korea’s fire agency, at least 160 people have died, including 83 women, 82 men, and 11 people whose genders have not yet been identified.
Azerbaijan plane crash
The accident comes shortly after a similar crash involving an Azerbaijan Airlines flight near Kazakhstan’s Aktau, which resulted in 38 deaths. Initial reports indicate that the plane deviated from its flight path due to fog, but it was later unintentionally shot down by Russian air defenses. President Vladimir Putin aplogised to Azerbaijan’s president for the “tragic incident,” but he stopped short of officially saying that the plane had been shot down.