In a touching yet deeply tragic moment, a dog named Pudding, who lost all nine members of its family in the tragic Jeju Air crash at Muan International Airport, has been rescued. Coexistence of Animal Rights on Earth (CARE), a South Korean animal rights organization, announced on December 31 that they had taken in Pudding after it was found wandering alone in a village in Yeonggwang, South Jeolla Province.
Pudding belonged to Bae, 78, the oldest victim of the accident, and his family. Bae and his loved ones were on their first overseas trip to Thailand, celebrating his upcoming 80th birthday, when the tragedy struck. The crash claimed the lives of all nine members of his immediate family, leaving the small dog as the only survivor.
Pudding the Dog in Jeju Air Tragedy: CARE's Swift Rescue After Heart-Wrenching Discovery in Yeonggwang
Reports and media coverage about Pudding’s plight prompted CARE to act swiftly. The organization found the dog outside a community center in Yeonggwang, quietly waiting, as though anticipating its family’s return. CARE recounted the emotional moment, sharing, “The way Pudding eagerly ran toward us as soon as it saw us made us believe it had been waiting for its family.” Recognizing the risks of leaving the dog unattended, CARE made the decision to rescue Pudding. After consulting with the bereaved family members at the funeral home, they agreed to temporarily care for the dog. For now, Pudding, the Dog in Jeju Air Tragedy, is being housed safely in Seoul under the organization’s supervision while arrangements are made to find a suitable permanent guardian. CARE also expressed concerns about Pudding’s health and well-being. “We will ensure Pudding receives proper care and love while we continue discussions with the family,” the organization stated.
A Family’s Final Journey
Pudding’s late owner, Bae, had embarked on his first overseas trip to Thailand with his family to celebrate his upcoming 80th birthday. Tragically, the journey ended in disaster. Bae and his wife, Lim (64), resided in a village in Yeonggwang, along with their eldest daughter and six-year-old granddaughter, Jeong. The group of nine, which also included Bae’s younger daughter, her three children, and his eldest son-in-law, were among the victims of the crash. The tragedy left Bae’s younger son-in-law to grieve the sudden and profound loss of his parents-in-law, wife, and three children. As of December 31, the identities of three victims, including Pudding’s companion Jeong, Bae’s younger daughter, and her youngest son, remained unconfirmed. The family’s memorial service will proceed once all victims are identified. Pudding’s rescue has offered a glimmer of hope in an otherwise somber narrative. CARE’s commitment to the dog’s well-being underscores the enduring bond between humans and animals, even in the face of unthinkable loss. For now, Pudding’s future remains in caring hands as the organization works toward finding a loving, permanent home.
Sending our deepest condolences to the families of the victims. May their souls find peace, and may they find comfort and strength in this difficult time.
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