During a joint military exercise with the United States on Thursday (March 6), two South Korean fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs on a civilian area in Pocheon, South Korea, injuring 15 people. The incident occurred during a live-fire drill involving KF-16 fighter jets, which mistakenly released MK-82 bombs outside the designated firing range.
The bombs damaged trucks, houses, and a church, causing plumes of smoke and prompting the evacuation of 50 residents. The Ministry of National Defense confirmed that 15 people were injured, with two in serious condition.
The South Korean Air Force has apologized for the incident and expressed hopes for the injured’s speedy recovery. The Air Force also promised compensation and announced the formation of a committee to investigate the accident. An Air Force official noted that one of the pilots entered incorrect coordinates, leading to the mishap.
In response to the incident, all live-fire exercises across South Korea have been suspended until further notice, as authorities work to determine the cause and implement preventative measures. Despite the accident, the annual U.S.-South Korea joint exercises, known as “Freedom Shield,” are set to continue as planned from March 10 to 20.
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