62 dead in South Korea plane crash as aircraft lands with malfunctioning gear

Tragedy struck Muan International Airport on Sunday as a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800, returning from Bangkok, crash-landed due to a malfunctioning landing gear, leaving at least 62 people dead and dozens injured.

The ill-fated flight veered off the runway upon landing, colliding with a perimeter fence before bursting into flames. Emergency responders reported that the plane broke into two sections near the front and tail, complicating rescue operations.

South Korea's acting president, Choi Sang-mok, has ordered the deployment of all available resources to assist in the rescue efforts. “Our priority is to save lives and provide immediate medical care to survivors,” he stated in an emergency briefing.

Witnesses recounted hearing loud bangs as the plane attempted to land, signaling possible mechanical failures. Early investigations suggest the landing gear failed to deploy, causing the aircraft to lose control.

Rescue teams are working tirelessly to locate survivors among the 181 passengers and crew onboard. According to Yonhap News, three individuals, including a passenger and a crew member, have been rescued so far.

In light of the disaster, all flights at Muan International Airport have been suspended indefinitely. The route between Muan and Bangkok, which began operations just three weeks ago, is under scrutiny.