The devastating Jeju Air Muan Airport disaster has left South Korea in mourning, with public figures like Kim Byung-hyun, Ahn Yoo-sung, and Hong Jin-young among those personally affected by the tragedy. The accident, which claimed 179 lives out of 181 passengers, has shaken the nation, with stars expressing their grief and offering support to the bereaved families.

Chef Ahn Yoo-sung's Act of Service

Celebrity chef Ahn Yoo-sung, known for his role in Black and White Chef, took immediate action upon hearing the news. On December 28, he arrived at Muan International Airport to deliver 200 servings of gimbap to grieving families.

“I heard about the tragedy while I was in the kitchen,” Ahn shared. “I couldn’t just sit still. My team and I quickly prepared food and rushed here to provide comfort through the only way I knew how—through cooking.”

Ahn revealed that a producer he once worked with was among the victims. Moved by the loss, he pledged to continue supporting the families, planning to serve rice cake soup on New Year’s Day.

Kim Byung-hyun’s Emotional Tribute

Former major league baseball player Kim Byung-hyun revealed that a member of the Kia Tigers’ public relations team, Ko Kang-in, and his family were among the victims.

“Kang-in was overjoyed with his wife and child,” Kim said through tears. “I had recently liked a post he shared about enjoying time in Thailand with his family. It’s heartbreaking to think they’re gone.”

Kim shared poignant memories of Ko Kang-in and his 3-year-old son, the youngest victim of the tragedy. On December 31, Kia Tigers players and executives visited the memorial altar to pay their respects, further highlighting the deep sense of loss felt by those close to the victims.

Hong Jin-young’s Heartfelt Condolence

Singer Hong Jin-young also expressed her grief, revealing that her dentist was among those who perished.

“I had just seen him a few days ago,” she said. “He was a genuinely kind person. It’s hard to believe he’s gone. May he rest in peace.”

The dentist, well-regarded in the community, was remembered for his compassion and professionalism.

A Nation in Mourning

The accident occurred on December 29 when a Jeju Air passenger plane, traveling from Bangkok to Muan International Airport, collided with a concrete wall at the end of the runway. The crash, suspected to have been caused by landing gear failure, has left only two survivors and resulted in an outpouring of grief across the country.

In response, Acting President and Minister of Strategy and Finance Choi Sang-mok declared a national mourning period from December 29 to January 4. Entertainment events, including year-end award ceremonies, concerts, and YouTube broadcasts, have been canceled as the nation mourns.

This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life, with families and friends of the victims coming together to honor their loved ones and seek solace in a time of unimaginable loss. Our hearts go out to all those affected by this devastating event.