South Korea declares 7-day mourning period after passenger plane tragedy

The South Korean government has declared a 7-day mourning period.

On December 29, officials announced that the nation would observe a period of mourning from the day of the Jeju Air passenger plane accident at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province through January 4.

Joint memorial altars will be established at the accident site in Muan Airport and across 17 regions, including South Jeolla Province, Gwangju, Seoul, and Sejong. Public institutions will lower their flags to half-mast, and public officials will wear mourning ribbons as a sign of respect.

Choi Sang Mok, Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs and Minister of Economy and Finance, addressed the public during a Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters meeting:

“The government has designated the period from today until 24:00 on January 4 as a national mourning period. Joint memorial altars will be established in Muan Airport, South Jeolla Province, Gwangju, Seoul, Sejong, and 17 other regions to express condolences and mourning for the victims.”

He added, “All ministries, local governments, and public institutions will lower flags to half-mast, public officials will wear mourning ribbons, and, above all, the safety of citizens will be prioritized.”

Choi also announced, “South Jeolla Province’s Muan County will be designated as a special disaster area,” emphasizing, “We will provide all necessary support for recovery efforts, assistance to bereaved families, and treatment for the injured.”

In related news, broadcast has been canceled for 'MBC Entertainment Awards,' along with most variety shows and artists' promotions, in light of the tragic incident.

Our deepest sympathies are with the victims and their families during this tragic time.