Plane Crash at South Korean Airport Leaves at Least 28 Dead after Catching Fire and Crashing Into Runway Fence

A passenger plane caught fire while landing at South Korea’s Muan International Airport, as reported by local media Yonhap.

According to first responders, the plane caught fire due to a malfunctioning landing gear, causing it to veer off the runway and crash into an airport fence.

The crash site was filled with thick black smoke.

Returning from Bangkok, Thailand, the Jeju Air flight had 175 passengers and six flight attendants on board.

Initial reports indicate that at least 28 people have died in the crash, and ongoing rescue operations are underway. The incident took place around 9 a.m. local time.

Yonhap reported that two individuals were found alive in the tail section of the plane as rescue efforts continued.

The Muan airport is located in Korea’s South Jeolla Province.

Acting President Choi Sung-mok, appointed as interim leader after the impeachment of the previous acting president amidst a political crisis, has ordered extensive rescue efforts, according to his office.

A spokesperson for Jeju Air stated that the airline is currently verifying the reports.

Reuters and The Associated Press contributed to this report.