Calls Grow for Prompt Reopening of Muan International Airport as Responsibility Shifts to South Jeolla Province

"Call for Roadmap Including Relocation of Memorial Altar and Disclosure of Restoration Progress"

The Muan International Airport Revitalization Promotion Committee visited the Jeonnam Provincial Government Office on the 26th to urge the announcement of measures for airport normalization.

As the reopening of Muan International Airport in South Jeolla Province remains stalled for an extended period, the local community has begun demanding responsible normalization measures from the provincial government. On November 26, the Muan International Airport Revitalization Promotion Committee, the Muan International Airport Normalization Council, local civic groups in Muan County, and travel industry representatives from Gwangju and South Jeolla Province issued a joint statement. They emphasized that the prompt reopening of Muan International Airport is essential for the survival of residents in the southwestern region and is a key factor for balanced regional development, urging immediate action from the provincial authorities.

First, they insisted that the South Jeolla Provincial Government must promptly relocate the memorial altar for the Jeju Air passenger plane accident, which is currently set up inside the airport. They argued that the memorial altar, which has remained at the airport for 11 months since the accident in December last year, is a major factor delaying the reopening. While respecting the bereaved families' right to mourn, they stressed the urgent need for practical measures to normalize airport operations.

They also called for transparent disclosure of critical information, including the progress rate of airport restoration work, any design changes, budget execution details, and the reopening schedule. The statement pointed out, "South Jeolla Province must immediately release the results of its consultations with the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport and Korea Airports Corporation, and establish an 'Airport Normalization Monitoring Council' that includes community participation." It further criticized that "non-transparent administration and unilateral notifications undermine the trust of local residents."

Additionally, concerns were raised regarding the provincial government's recent request to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to extend the runway at Yeosu Airport and temporarily operate international flights there. The statement criticized, "Yeosu Airport has a short runway and severe geographical constraints, posing structural safety limitations. Expanding international flights at Yeosu Airport while Muan International Airport remains closed is an act of neglecting the residents of the southwestern region." The statement also demanded that Governor Kim Yungrok clearly state the justification for pursuing international flights at Yeosu Airport and clarify the normalization plan for Muan International Airport.

The local organizations also called for a clear stance from the provincial government regarding the City of Gwangju's renewed application for temporary international flights at Gwangju Airport. They warned, "If South Jeolla Province effectively allows Gwangju Airport to fill the void left by Muan Airport, the function of Muan International Airport will be completely lost," and urged a firm response.

In addition, they demanded a swift investigation into the cause of the Jeju Air passenger plane accident and the establishment of measures to prevent recurrence. The statement stressed, "The suffering of the bereaved families cannot be resolved through administrative procedures or the passage of time. The government and South Jeolla Province must establish a fair process and implement preventive measures."

Finally, they argued that the provincial government must actively recommend that the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport present a 'roadmap for the normalization of Muan International Airport.' Citing an analysis that the suspension of airport operations over the past 11 months has resulted in more than 200 billion won in losses to the local economy, they emphasized, "What is needed now is not promises, but concrete plans and action."

The local community stated, "The reopening of Muan International Airport is not merely about resuming flights; it is directly linked to the survival of the southwestern region of South Jeolla Province. We will continue to monitor and take action until that day comes."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.