A South Korean probe into the Dec. 29, 2024, Jeju Air crash, which killed 179, is delayed, angering families who blame systemic failures and poor oversight.

A South Korean investigation into the December 29, 2024, Jeju Air crash, which killed 179 people, is delayed beyond the one-year deadline, fueling frustration among victims’ families. The Boeing 737-800 overshot the runway at Muan Airport, struck a non-frangible concrete embankment, and exploded. Preliminary findings confirm bird strikes damaged both engines, and pilots shut down the less-damaged one, though a July update was withheld due to family objections. Families criticize the probe for focusing on pilot error while overlooking potential systemic failures, including the embankment, which violated international safety standards. Protests continue, and a parliamentary independent inquiry is set to begin, while legislation aims to transfer oversight of the investigation board to the prime minister’s office to improve independence.