A global wake-up call

The tragic crash of Jeju Air flight 7C 2216 on Sunday morning plunged South Korea into one of its darkest hours.

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The flight, which carried 175 passengers and six crew members from Bangkok to Muan County, ended in catastrophe as it attempted to land, resulting in the loss of at least 177 lives. This devastating incident, the deadliest aviation disaster in South Korea since 1997, comes at a time of political instability, with acting President Choi only two days into his tenure. Early findings suggest that the plane's undercarriage failed to deploy fully before landing, with speculation pointing to a potential mechanical failure or a bird strike, though the exact cause remains unclear. Choi's swift declaration of a special disaster zone and mobilization of resources reflects the government's determination to address the immediate crisis, but this tragedy exposes deeper vulnerabilities in the aviation sector that demand urgent scrutiny. It also serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the immense responsibility that comes with ensuring the safety of air travel. The grief and shock are palpable across the nation, as families and communities mourn the loss of loved ones, thrust into a nightmare no one could foresee.