New Year's Eve celebrations across South Korea were canceled as the country observes a period of national mourning following the deadly crash of a Jeju Air plane that claimed 179 lives.

The B737-800 aircraft, carrying 175 passengers and six crew members on a flight from Bangkok, Thailand, crashed into the airport wall while landing at Muan International Airport on December 29. Only two people survived and remain in critical condition at the hospital.

The government declared a seven-day national mourning period starting Sunday, with memorial altars to be set up nationwide. Flags are flying at half-staff across all ministries, local governments, and public institutions, while public officials are wearing mourning ribbons as a sign of respect.

As reported by Korean media, local governments have also canceled New Year celebrations and annual countdown events, reflecting the subdued atmosphere across the country.

In Seoul, districts such as Mapo, Seodaemun, Gwangjin, Songpa, Yangcheon, Dobong, Gangbuk, and Eunpyeong canceled events including the "2025 Red Road Countdown Event," sunrise festivals, and concerts. However, some areas, like Sky Park, will still provide basic amenities and ensure safety measures for visitors.

On the East Coast, popular sunrise events such as the "27th Homigot Korean People's Sunrise Festival" and bell-ringing ceremonies in Gyeongju and Yeongdeok have also been called off. Instead, spaces for mourning and warming facilities will be made available for tourists.

West Coast regions, including Taean, Seocheon, and Buyeo, have similarly canceled sunset and sunrise events along with activities like fireworks and soup-sharing.

Sejong City, meanwhile, replaced its canceled sunrise and drone show events with an incense altar in front of City Hall Plaza to honor the victims of the Jeju Air tragedy.