S. Korea Minister Resigns After Fatal Plane Crash

South Korea's transport minister, Park Sang-woo, announced his intention to resign, taking responsibility for the deadly crash of Jeju Air flight 7C2216 on December 29, which resulted in 179 fatalities. The aircraft overshot the runway at Muan International Airport and exploded after hitting an embankment. Safety experts criticized the embankment for being too rigid and close to the runway, contributing to the crash. Investigations revealed potential causes like a bird strike, supported by feathers found on one engine and video evidence of the strike. Authorities have raided the offices of Jeju Air and the airport operator, and two investigators have traveled to the US to analyze the flight data recorder. The government plans to enhance airport landing system safety and has extended the closure of Muan airport until January 14.