A somber atmosphere envelops an office in Muan County, South Korea, where grief-stricken colleagues mourn the tragic loss of five co-workers killed in the Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 crash. The ill-fated return flight from Bangkok ended in devastation at Muan International Airport on Sunday, claiming the lives of 179 people in the deadliest air disaster on South Korean soil.
A Heartbreaking Loss
The five victims, female colleagues from the Jeollanamdo Office of Education, had traveled to Bangkok to celebrate promotions and a long-awaited holiday together. Back at their workplace, their absence is deeply felt:
- Empty Desks: White chrysanthemums, symbolizing mourning, adorn their workstations.
- Unfinished Plans: Boxes with books and stationery remain untouched, waiting for a victim who had planned to move desks in the New Year.
- Unimaginable Grief: Co-workers wear black ribbons and struggle to come to terms with the tragedy.
Voices of Mourning
Lee Dae-keun, who worked closely with one of the victims, shared his sorrow:
“It doesn’t feel real. She is still lingering in my eyes. Whenever I see flowers on that empty desk, sadness rushes in.”
Another colleague, Lee Kwi-sun, a school chef, recalled her last moments with one of the victims:
“We held hands, laughed, and parted ways, promising to meet again. Now, it breaks my heart to think we never will.”
Support Amid Tragedy
In the aftermath of the crash, the office has come together to support the grieving families and honor the memories of the deceased:
- Altar of Condolence: An altar has been set up at the office where colleagues and neighbors pay their respects, bowing in tears and leaving offerings.
- Aid for Families: Co-workers have visited the airport to assist bereaved families by providing food and charging phones.
Remembering the Victims
Colleagues describe the victims as hard-working, kind, and full of life.
“She always told me to stay happy and positive,” Lee Dae-keun said, reflecting on the positive spirit one of the victims exuded.
Their camaraderie and shared joy on the trip make the loss even more painful for those left behind.
A Nation in Mourning
The crash of Jeju Air Flight 7C2216 has sent shockwaves across South Korea, marking a somber moment in the nation’s history. For the employees of the Jeollanamdo Office of Education, the tragedy has turned the festive season into one of profound grief, leaving behind memories and an emptiness that will linger for years to come.
As Muan County and the nation mourn the lives lost, the words of one colleague resonate deeply:
“We were like lost siblings that just met. It’s impossible to believe they’re gone.”
