WORLD NEWS FOR MONTENEGRO DIASPORA
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South Korean authorities have announced the establishment of an independent inquiry into the Jeju Air disaster that claimed the lives of 179 people, following mounting public frustration over delays and disputes in the official investigation.
The crash, which occurred under circumstances that continue to be scrutinized, triggered national mourning and urgent demands for answers from families of victims, aviation experts and the wider public. Initial investigative efforts by government agencies faced criticism for slow progress, lack of transparency and disagreements between relevant authorities over key aspects of the probe.
In response, the government has appointed an independent commission composed of aviation specialists, legal experts and representatives from civil society to take over the investigation. Officials say the new body will have full authority to review all available evidence, interview personnel involved in the flight’s operation, and assess regulatory oversight in an effort to determine the root causes of the catastrophe.
Relatives of the victims have welcomed the move as a necessary step toward accountability, though some families said they remain wary, emphasizing that clarity and truth are overdue. Many have expressed frustration at having to wait months for substantive updates and at what they perceive as bureaucratic infighting that has hindered the search for answers.
The independent inquiry is expected to examine factors such as aircraft maintenance records, pilot training and decision-making, air traffic control communication, weather conditions, and airline and regulatory practices. Its findings could have far-reaching implications for aviation safety standards in South Korea and beyond.
Government officials acknowledge the emotional toll the investigation has taken on families and have pledged support services, including counseling and financial assistance, while the inquiry continues. They say the public deserves a credible and comprehensive account of what went wrong.
International aviation organizations and foreign regulators have offered technical support to the independent commission, underscoring the global aviation community’s interest in preventing similar tragedies. However, diplomatic sensitivities could arise if evidence points to systemic issues or lapses in oversight.
As the independent investigation gets underway, many in South Korea are calling for swift but thorough work, hoping that clear answers will bring some measure of closure to grieving families and help restore confidence in the nation’s aviation system.
Author: M.J
