Hijacking of aircraft from Kangnung Airport to North Korea

No fatalities • Wonsan, North Korea • Landing (descent or approach)

A passenger hijacked a flight departing from South Korea, forcing the crew to divert to North Korean territory where several individuals were detained.

What happened

Approximately ten minutes after departing from Kangnung Airport, an individual entered the cockpit and compelled the flight crew to change course toward North Korea. After the aircraft crossed the border between the two Koreas, it was intercepted by three fighter jets. The crew was subsequently forced to land at Sondok Airport, located near Wonsan.

During the arrival process, the landing was unsuccessful, resulting in severe damage to the aircraft. While there were no injuries among the 52 occupants, all individuals on board were taken into custody and interned by North Korean authorities. Following diplomatic discussions between South and North Korea, 39 passengers were permitted to return to South Korea on 14 February 1970.

Findings

Thirteen people remained in North Korean custody following the incident: the four crew members, nine passengers, and the hijacker. As of 2018, the status and fate of these 13 individuals remain unknown to both the South Korean government and their families.

Probable cause

A passenger entered the cockpit and used force to compel the pilots to divert the aircraft into North Korean airspace.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1969-12-11 NAMC YS-11 accident near Wonsan, North Korea?

A passenger hijacked a flight departing from South Korea, forcing the crew to divert to North Korean territory where several individuals were detained.

Were there any fatalities in the 1969-12-11 NAMC YS-11 accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1969-12-11 involved a NAMC YS-11, registration HL5208, operated by Korean Air, at Wonsan, North Korea.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A passenger entered the cockpit and used force to compel the pilots to divert the aircraft into North Korean airspace.

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