President Lee Jae-myung, regarding the additional discovery of the remains and belongings of victims of the Dec. 29 Muan Airport Jeju Air disaster, said, "Thoroughly investigate why the remains were not recovered in the early stage of the accident and why they were left unattended for more than a year after the accident," and added, "Strictly hold accountable the officials responsible for this situation."
According to Cheong Wa Dae Senior Secretary for Public Communication Lee Gyu-yeon on the 12th, President Lee made these remarks after receiving a report that day on the additional investigation into the wreckage from the Dec. 29 passenger plane disaster, saying, "Strictly hold accountable the officials responsible for this situation." He also said, "It has been 15 months since the disaster occurred, yet the accident investigation is still ongoing," and added, "Conduct the investigation thoroughly and swiftly."
Senior Secretary Lee said the president expressed deep regret to the bereaved families over the belated excavation of the victims' remains and offered condolences. He added, "Through a meticulous investigation, we will properly honor the bereaved families and fully carry out our responsibility in disaster response."
Earlier, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the Aviation and Railway Accident Investigation Board, and the South Jeolla Provincial Police Agency's forensics team began re-examining the on-site debris on the 12th of last month, about 1 year and 2 months after the Dec. 29 passenger plane disaster. Cheong Wa Dae said the latest investigation found nine remains belonging to seven victims, 648 personal items including four mobile phones, and 155 aircraft parts. The additional investigation of the remnants is scheduled through the end of this month.