A tragic plane crash in South Korea on December 29th claimed the lives of 179 people, making it the country’s deadliest aviation disaster in decades. Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, arriving from Bangkok, Thailand, faced a catastrophic landing gear failure during its approach to Muan International Airport. The plane crashed into the airport’s perimeter wall at the end of the runway and erupted in flames. Tragically, only two crew members survived the crash.
The South Korean government declared a national mourning period from the day of the crash until January 4th to honor the victims. In response, many celebrities have joined the nation in mourning, expressing their condolences and offering support to those affected by the tragedy.
Celebrities Pay Tribute
K-pop group NewJeans expressed their condolences on Instagram on December 30th, posting the message “In sincere condolences” alongside an image of a black flower brooch. During their appearance on the 66th Japan Record Awards the same day, the members wore black ribbons on their lapels to honor the victims. Their agency, ADOR, also issued a statement, saying, “We extend our deepest condolences to those who lost their lives in this tragic accident and heartfelt sympathies to the grieving families.”
Actress Park Ju Hyun shared her sympathies on December 31st, posting a prayer emoji and a photo of a chrysanthemum on social media. Park has recently been in the spotlight due to dating rumors with WINNER’s Song Min Ho but has not addressed the speculation.
Former member of SS501 Kim Hyun Joong also paid tribute by posting a chrysanthemum photo on December 30th with the message, “I offer my deepest condolences.”
Former baseball player and current TV personality Kim Byung Hyun honored a friend who died in the crash. On December 30th, he shared a photo of a white chrysanthemum and a heartfelt memorial message on Instagram. His friend, a Kia Tigers employee, had been traveling with his wife and three-year-old son on their first overseas trip when they tragically perished.
>> G-Dragon, S.Coups Among Stars Paying Tribute to Jeju Air Victims; Year-End Award Shows in Flux
Other public figures, including singer Junjin’s wife Ryu Yi Seo, reality show participants Sung Hae Eun and Kim Ji Young, and former fencer Kim Jun Ho, have also paid their respects. All of them have connections to the airline industry, either as former flight attendants or through family members who are flight attendants. Additionally, BIGBANG’s G-Dragon, broadcaster Jeon Hyun Moo, and former Jewelry member Lee Ji Hyun shared chrysanthemum images on social media to honor the victims.
Celebrities Offering Support
Some celebrities have gone beyond tributes, offering tangible support. Comedian Park Na Rae not only posted a tribute on social media but also made a donation to assist those affected by the tragedy. While the exact amount was not disclosed, she was one of the first to offer support, especially as someone from the affected region.
Chef Ahn Yoo Seong, known from Netflix show Culinary Class Wars, personally visited Muan International Airport to deliver 200 servings of gimbap to the victims’ families. Ahn, who lost a colleague in the crash, said, “Cooking is what I do best, so I wanted to contribute this way.” He also announced plans to prepare rice cake soup for the families on New Year’s Day.
Criticism Over Inappropriate Posts
Not all celebrity responses have been well-received. Jeon Jong Seo drew criticism for sharing selfies during the mourning period, with many calling the timing inappropriate. She subsequently removed the photos.
Ahn Hyun Mo also faced backlash for posting a message about the fragility of life and luck alongside a photo, which some found insensitive.
Netflix’s Single’s Inferno 3 star Choi Hye Seon was criticized for sharing a tribute that included video footage of the crash, prompting concerns about retraumatizing the victims’ families. She later deleted the post and issued an apology.
>> 7 Movies Featuring ‘Squid Game 2’ Stars, Now Available on Amasian.TV
Leave your vote