TWO THAI PASSENGERS CONFIRMED DEAD IN SOUTH KOREA PLANE TRAGEDY

By Kenny Teng

BANGKOK, Dec 29 (Bernama) -- Thailand’s Foreign Affairs Ministry has confirmed that two Thai nationals were among the fatalities in the tragic Jeju Air flight incident that occurred on Sunday while en route to Muan International Airport in South Korea.

In a statement, the ministry said the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul received confirmation from South Korean authorities regarding the two Thai passengers who lost their lives in the incident.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is deeply saddened to confirm that two Thai passengers were among the fatalities. The ministry has already contacted the relatives of the deceased Thai nationals,” it said here Sunday.

The ministry added that the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul is working closely with South Korean authorities and Jeju Air to assist the bereaved families.

Efforts are underway to facilitate the travel of the relatives from Thailand to South Korea, it said.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extends its deepest condolences to all the families of the deceased for their immense loss, particularly during this holiday season when families are often travelling to reunite with loved ones,” the ministry said.

The ministry further assured that it will continue to provide all necessary support and assistance to the affected families during this difficult time.

Citing authorities, Yonhap News Agency reported that the passenger jet belly-landed and exploded at the airport, killing 179 with two others having been rescued.

A total of 181 people, including six crew members, were aboard the plane that was returning from Bangkok.

The passengers were all Koreans, except for two Thai nationals.

Of those on board, 82 were men and 93 were women, ranging in age from as young as three to 78 years old.

Many were in their 40s, 50s and 60s, said the report.

-- BERNAMA