South Korea: Government Promises Ongoing Assistance for Families Affected by Air Disaster
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Seoul, Jan 7 (NationPress) The South Korean government will continue to provide comprehensive support for the families of the 179 victims of the catastrophic Jeju Air accident, acting President Choi Sang-mok announced on Tuesday, as funeral services are set to conclude shortly.
As of Monday, the remains of all victims have been returned to their families, Choi confirmed.
The Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 flight, which had 181 passengers and crew onboard, tragically crashed at Muan International Airport on December 29, resulting in only two survivors, according to reports from Yonhap news agency.
"Even after the funeral proceedings are finalized, the government will diligently make sure that no challenges faced by the grieving families are overlooked, providing thorough support until all matters are addressed," Choi stated during a disaster management meeting.
He further highlighted that the government will collaborate with local organizations to keep communication open with the families, ensuring their needs are continuously recognized and met.
For example, psychological support teams have been created to assist in the emotional healing of the bereaved families and those involved in the accident response, he noted.
Starting Friday, emergency living expenses will be allocated to the victims’ families, Choi added.
The Financial Services Commission will aid bereaved families by extending their loan deadlines. Furthermore, special guarantees will be made available through the state-operated Korea Credit Guarantee Fund for any new financing they may require.
Previously, South Korea’s Transport Ministry indicated that two engines from the Jeju Air aircraft involved in the tragic accident have been transferred to a hangar for an extensive investigation.
The Jeju Air aircraft, carrying 181 individuals returning from Bangkok, crashed while landing at Muan International Airport in the southwestern region of Muan on December 29, resulting in fatalities for all but two onboard.
One of the engines was moved to the hangar on Friday, while the other was transferred the previous day, as reported by the Transport Ministry.
