Jeju Air Crash Investigators to Hold Public Hearing Amid Growing Criticism

Families demand transparency as the cause of the tragedy remains unknown

Nearly twelve months after the fatal Jeju Air crash that claimed dozens of lives in South Korea, the official investigation still has not identified a definitive cause. The lingering uncertainty has sparked intense scrutiny of the investigative panel, with victims’ families accusing the board of lacking both credibility and impartiality.

In response to mounting pressure, the investigation team announced that it will convene a public hearing next month. The hearing is intended to provide a forum where relatives of the deceased, aviation experts, and other stakeholders can present questions, share concerns, and receive updates on the progress of the probe.

“We deserve answers, not vague statements,” said Lee Min‑ho, a representative of the families’ association. “The public hearing is a step in the right direction, but it must be conducted transparently, with real accountability.”

The board, composed of officials from the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, the Korea Aviation Accident Investigation Board, and independent experts, has faced criticism for its perceived lack of independence. Critics point to the board’s close ties to the airline industry and the government, suggesting that these relationships could compromise the objectivity of the investigation.

Authorities have pledged that the hearing will be open to the media and that all testimonies will be documented and made publicly available. They also indicated that any new findings will be promptly incorporated into the final report, which is expected to be released by the end of the year.

Meanwhile, advocacy groups are urging the government to consider appointing an external, internationally recognized investigative body to oversee the case, arguing that an independent review could restore public confidence.

As the date of the hearing approaches, families remain hopeful that their voices will finally be heard and that the truth behind the Jeju Air tragedy will be uncovered.