Maldives’ leader extends condolences over tragic plane crash in South Korea

Maldivian President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu sent a message of condolence to Acting South Korean President Choi Sang-mok on Monday, after a tragic plane crash in South Korea the previous day killed 179 people.

The accident occurred on Sunday at 9:03am local time (00:03 GMT) as the Jeju Air flight, carrying 175 passengers and six crew from the Thai capital Bangkok, landed at Muan International Airport about 290 kilometers southwest of the capital Seoul.

The plane skidded off the runway and crashed into a fence while trying to land, before exploding.

The National Fire Agency confirmed that 179 people – 85 women, 84 men and 10 others whose genders weren’t immediately identifiable – have been killed, and two people have been rescued – both crew members.

In a message to President Choi on Monday, President Muizzu expressed profound sadness and shock upon learning of the tragic plane crash, and the loss of so many precious lives.

He offered condolences to the bereaved families of the victims and extended sympathies to the government and people of South Korea, especially those affected by this devastating event.

Before concluding the message, President Muizzu extended best wishes for the success of the ongoing recovery efforts, and for the strength and resilience of South Korea during this difficult time.

South Korea’s National Fire Agency reported that the crash is believed to have been caused by “contact with birds, resulting in malfunctioning landing gear” as the plane attempted to land at the airport.

The accident has been declared the worst in history on South Korean soil.

The plane, a 15-year-old Boeing 737-800 jet, was reported to be carrying two Thai passengers and the rest were believed to be South Koreans.

The South Korean government has declared seven days of national mourning over the plane crash.