The Minute to Read (Weekdays) series provides a quick overview of significant events in Korea everyday, conveniently condensed into a one-minute read. Here’s a recap of what happened yesterday: Dec. 30.

On the afternoon of Dec. 30, 2024, Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 collided with a concrete embankment at the end of the runway during a belly landing attempt at Muan International Airport, resulting in the deaths of 179 out of 181 passengers on board. Officials are inspecting the embankment. /Jang Ryeon-seong

Safety flaws at Muan Airport come under spotlight after crash

The Dec. 29 crash of a Jeju Air plane at Muan International Airport has spotlighted long-standing design flaws, including a short runway, high bird strike risks, and limited operational readiness. Muan Airport, envisioned as a regional hub but underutilized since its 2007 opening, has the highest bird strike rate among South Korean airports. Critics link these issues to politically driven development, while experts call for better infrastructure and emergency preparedness to mitigate risks.

Jeju Air's newly introduced Boeing B737-800 jet. /Chosun DB

S. Korea Jeju Air plane flew 13 times in 48 hours before disaster

A Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 crashed at Muan International Airport on Dec. 29, claiming 179 lives, after completing 13 flights across eight airports within 48 hours. While the aircraft, manufactured in 2009, was not considered old, analysts note frequent short-haul flights can accelerate fatigue, raising questions about maintenance despite Jeju Air’s assurances of compliance with safety protocols. The Boeing 737-800, widely used globally, has faced several high-profile incidents in recent years.

Acting President and Deputy Prime Minister Choi Sang-mok, who also serves as Minister of Economy and Finance, speaks with family members of passengers from the crashed aircraft in front of the control tower at Muan International Airport in Jeollanam-do (South Jeolla Province) on Dec. 29. 2024. /News1

S. Korea’s Acting President juggles disaster response and governance

A plane crash at Muan International Airport on Dec. 29 prompted the South Korean government to activate the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (CDSCH), led by acting president and deputy prime minister Choi Sang-mok due to leadership vacancies amid political turmoil. Choi, whose expertise lies in economic affairs, now simultaneously oversees disaster response, economic policies, and national governance, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the government’s leadership structure. The crash’s aftermath has led to postponed economic policy announcements and intensified efforts to identify victims and investigate the cause of the accident.

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