A devastating plane crash in South Korea, claiming the lives of nearly all 181 passengers and crew, has prompted a thorough investigation involving U.S. and South Korean authorities, as well as representatives from Boeing, the aircraft's manufacturer. The Boeing 737-800 operated by Jeju Air, a South Korean budget airline, crashed on Sunday while attempting a landing at Muan International Airport after declaring an emergency. While a pre-flight inspection reportedly revealed no issues, the aircraft's final moments, captured on video, show it skidding past the runway and colliding with a concrete embankment. This incident marks South Korea's deadliest plane crash in decades.

Investigators are meticulously examining the wreckage and the recovered flight recorders, often referred to as "black boxes," to understand the sequence of events leading to the tragedy. The data from these recorders, including speed, altitude, fuel levels, and cockpit voice recordings, are crucial to piecing together the puzzle. Experts are also scrutinizing the placement of the airport embankment, with some suggesting it was too close to the runway's end, potentially exacerbating the crash's severity. An airport operating manual, reportedly updated earlier this year, highlighted concerns about the embankment's proximity and recommended a review of equipment placement during planned airport expansion.

South Korean army soldiers are pictured at Muan International Airport following the tragic plane crash. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

A memorial has been set up outside Muan International Airport to honor the victims. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

U.S. and South Korean investigators examine the crash site at Muan International Airport. (Son Hyung-joo/Yonhap via AP)

South Korean army soldiers work at Muan International Airport as part of the ongoing investigation. (AP Photo/Ahn Young-joon)

In response to the disaster, the South Korean government has initiated safety inspections for all 101 Boeing 737-800s operating within the country, focusing on maintenance and operational records. While the definitive cause of the crash remains undetermined and will likely take months to ascertain, investigators are exploring various possibilities, including a potential bird strike. However, aviation experts have noted the redundancy in aircraft systems, making a single bird strike a less likely primary cause. The pilot's approach, described as "hot and high" – meaning faster and higher than typical – is also under scrutiny. The investigation continues as authorities strive to understand the factors that contributed to this tragic event.