Fire Erupts on South Korean Passenger Plane, 176 Evacuated Safely

Researchers at South Korea's Pohang University of Science and Technology have made a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery technology, potentially enhancing energy retention and durability. According to a report by Tech Xplore, the team focused on a lithium-rich layered oxide material to improve battery performance, aiming to address issues of capacity fading and voltage decay that have impeded commercial viability. The new cathode design, which includes modifications to the electrolyte, boosted energy retention to 84.3% after 700 charge/discharge cycles, compared to just 37.1% for traditional nickel-based batteries after 300 cycles. This innovation not only increases energy density by up to 20% but also makes the technology more economical and sustainable by reducing reliance on nickel and cobalt, as noted by the researchers. Professor Jihyun Hong emphasized the potential impact of this research, stating, “We believe this work will provide new directions for developing next-generation cathode materials.” The findings could significantly contribute to the future of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.

A fire erupted on an Air Busan passenger plane at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, on January 28, 2025, prompting the evacuation of 176 people onboard, including 169 passengers and seven crew members. According to the National Fire Agency, the rear section of the Airbus A321 caught fire shortly before 10:30 PM, but the blaze was fully extinguished, and the evacuation was conducted safely using inflatable slides. Three individuals sustained minor injuries during the evacuation. While the cause of the fire remains unidentified, the incident marks a significant event in South Korea's aviation history, coming just a month after a tragic crash involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 that resulted in 179 fatalities. The transport ministry has launched an investigation into the recent incident to determine the underlying factors leading to the fire.

A fire broke out on an Air Busan flight at Gimhae International Airport in South Korea on January 29, injuring seven individuals, including three passengers and four crew members. The fire occurred shortly before take-off for Hong Kong, potentially sparked by a compressed portable battery in the overhead compartment, according to local media reports. All 169 passengers aboard were able to evacuate via inflatable slides before any significant injuries occurred, although one person was hospitalized following the incident. Dramatic footage captured moments of chaos as thick smoke filled the cabin, leading passengers to open emergency doors. Authorities are investigating, with transport ministry officials stating, “It is unclear when we will be able to disclose the investigation findings on the cause of last night’s fire.” The fire severely damaged nearly half of the aircraft’s fuselage, although its wings and engines remained intact. This incident follows a tragic aviation disaster that occurred in December, further heightening concerns over airline safety in the region.