YONGSAN GARRISON, South Korea — A 22-year-old South Korean woman died and another South Korean man is in critical condition after an accident early Wednesday involving an Osan Air Base airport bus.
The bus’ driver and five passengers were not injured, according to a base press release. The bus was returning to the air base after picking up passengers at Inchon International Airport, said Maj. Edwina Walton, Osan’s public affairs officer.
Han Joo-hee, who was riding in a Kia Spectra, died from her injuries, said Cpl. Lee Tong-jin, who works in the traffic accident division of Hwaseong Police Station. The driver, Hong Min-ki, 27, is in critical condition, Lee said. Walton said Hong was first taken to Osan-Seoul Hospital and then transferred to the Dongsuwon Hospital.
It’s believed one of the vehicles ran a red light at a highway intersection in Kal Kok-dong within Osan city, Lee said. Walton said the intersection is roughly 10 or 12 miles northeast of the air base.
Brig. Gen. William Holland, 51st Fighter Wing commander, in a press release expressed sincere concern for the individuals involved in the accident. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to all of those in their time of suffering. We extend special condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. Everyone at Osan hopes the injured person has a full and quick recovery.”
Choe Song-won contributed to this report.
