Chiang Rai: The family of Ms. Sirithon, affectionately known as "Nong Mei," is struggling to come to terms with her tragic death in a plane accident in South Korea. The 22-year-old's plane skidded off the runway, leaving relatives in shock and mourning. Preparations are underway for family members to travel to South Korea to retrieve her body.
According to Thai News Agency, the incident has deeply affected the community in Tambon Tha Ko, Amphoe Mae Suai, Chiang Rai Province, where Nong Mei lived. Many police officers, public health officials, village leaders, neighbors, and close relatives have gathered to offer condolences. Ms. Namo, Nong Mei's grandmother, remains inconsolable, frequently crying for her granddaughter, whom she raised from a young age.
Mr. Thiraphat, Nong Mei's uncle, explained that she had traveled to South Korea to visit her mother during her school break. The family remains in a state of grief, particularly his mother, who continuously mourns her granddaughter's passing. Jeju Airlines has reached out to the family to arrange for travel and accommodation for relatives who wish to go to South Korea to assist in the search and recovery process. Mr. Thiraphat, his sister, and Nong Mei's younger brother are scheduled to fly to South Korea today on Korean Air. The journey is expected to take six hours. As of now, Nong Mei's body has not been recovered, and discussions about repatriating her remains for a hometown ceremony remain on hold.
Meanwhile, Nong Mei's 13-year-old brother, Ratchapol, expressed his disbelief and sorrow upon hearing the news. He shared a heartfelt message for his sister, hoping she finds peace in the afterlife and wishing to be siblings again if given another life. Ms. Kitiyada, Nong Mei's cousin, recalled a recent conversation with her, noting that Nong Mei felt lonely and had few friends in South Korea.
In Udon Thani, another family is grappling with the loss of Ms. Jongluk, a passenger on the ill-fated flight. Ms. Boonsitha, her 18-year-old niece, shared the last chat she had with her aunt the night before the accident. Ms. Jongluk had messaged, asking if she was asleep and mentioning her impending return home. The following morning, Ms. Boonsitha attempted to contact her aunt but received no response. It was only later that she learned of her aunt's tragic fate. The family is now seeking to bring Ms. Jongluk's body back for funeral rites, as Ms. Boonsitha tearfully recounted their close bond.