The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA) in South Korea has swiftly mobilized in the aftermath of the tragic crash of Jeju Air Flight 7C2216, which claimed the lives of 179 individuals. In the wake of this devastating tragedy, ADRA is providing critical support to grieving families and aiding recovery efforts at Muan International Airport and surrounding areas.

On December 29, 2024, the passenger plane traveling from Bangkok to Muan tragically crashed during its final approach, leading to one of the most heartbreaking disasters in the region’s recent history. Among the victims were members of the Adventist community, including parents and students from Sahmyook Adventist School, deepening the grief for the local Adventist churches and schools.

ADRA’s Immediate Response and Volunteers

In response to the overwhelming tragedy, the ADRA Honam branch set up a disaster-relief booth at Muan International Airport on the day of the crash to offer a compassionate point of contact and assist victims’ families, emergency responders, and volunteers.

The relief efforts have united communities across the country in compassion. Adventist Church members, young people from Pathfinder clubs from different parts of the country, and faculty from the Adventist School who lost students and parents in the tragedy joined forces with ADRA to bring hope, comfort, and practical assistance to grieving families.

With the support of Adventist Church resources, ADRA and more than 200 volunteers helped prepare and serve 500 lunches, distribute snacks such as mandarin oranges, bananas, bread, and soy milk, and provide cold-weather supplies and daily necessities like toiletries, masks, wet wipes, medicines, and socks.

In a statement to Adventist media, Choi Gyu-sik, head of ADRA’s Honam branch, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who traveled from across the country to participate in the relief efforts, as well as to those who have generously donated goods and funds. He also emphasized the need for ongoing support.

“We are in constant discussions about how best to support the families and volunteers in the coming weeks. We will do our utmost to adjust volunteer schedules and supply distribution as needed, ensuring that the love of Christ is delivered to those most affected by this tragedy,” Choi said.

A Call for Continued Prayer and Support

ADRA, church leaders, and Seventh-day Adventist World Church President Ted N. C. Wilson urge the global community to pray and extend their support during this time of profound loss.

“The Adventist Church in South Korea has been deeply shaken by this tragic loss of life,” Wilson said. “We extend our heartfelt condolences and Christian love to the families who have lost loved ones, both within the Adventist community and beyond. May the Comforter be especially near to you now, as we look forward with hope to Christ’s soon return,” Wilson stated.

“As we grieve alongside our brothers and sisters in Korea, I urge our worldwide Church family to lift up in prayer all those who have suffered this unimaginable loss. Let us also pray for strength and wisdom for those who are ministering to grieving families during this incredibly dark time. Come quickly, Lord Jesus!”

Ongoing Relief and Hope

As the grieving community grapples with this heartbreaking tragedy, ADRA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that no family is left without the support they need, especially during the difficult days leading up to funeral services for their loved ones. This is just one example of the healing and hope ADRA brings to communities worldwide as they recover from disasters. With your generous donation, ADRA can make a lasting impact on those most in need—both in South Korea and globally, where catastrophes strike daily. ADRA is there to provide the compassion, care, and practical assistance required to help rebuild lives in the aftermath of tragedy.

The original article was published on the ADRA International website.