FG sympathises with South Korea as 179 die in plane crash

Rescue personnel work at the scene where a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 series aircraft crashed and burst into flames at Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province, some 288 kilometres southwest of Seoul on December 29, 2024. – A Jeju Air plane carrying 181 people from Bangkok to South Korea crashed on arrival on December 29, authorities told AFP, with 29 confirmed dead and dramatic video showing the aircraft bursting into flames. (Photograph: YONHAP / AFP)
The Federal Government of Nigeria has extended its heartfelt sympathy to the Government and people of South Korea following the tragic crash of Jeju Air Flight 2216, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 179 passengers.

In a statement issued by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa in Abuja on Sunday, the Nigerian government conveyed its condolences to the grieving families and expressed its solidarity with South Korea during this difficult time.

The crash occurred on Sunday, December 29, 2024, when the Boeing 737-800, returning from Bangkok, Thailand, attempted to land at Muan International Airport in southern South Korea. The plane skidded off the runway and crashed into a wall, leading to a fiery explosion. Of the 181 passengers and crew members on board, 179 tragically lost their lives, leaving only two survivors.

The Nigerian Government described the incident as a devastating loss and reiterated its full support for the South Korean people.

“The Federal Republic of Nigeria wishes to express its sincere condolences to the Government and People of the Republic of Korea for the tragic crash of Jeju Air Flight 2216 that occurred on Sunday, December 29, 2024.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria sympathizes deeply with the Government of South Korea and the families of the victims of this heartbreaking plane crash,” the statement read.