SEOUL — At least 15 people were injured on Thursday when South Korean fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs on a civilian area during a training exercise linked to upcoming joint military drills with the United States.
The South Korean Air Force confirmed that two KF-16 fighter jets mistakenly released eight 500-pound MK-82 bombs in Pocheon, a city near the North Korean border. The incident occurred due to incorrect coordinates entered by a pilot during flight preparation, and an investigation is underway to determine additional factors.
Authorities reported that two civilians sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, while others, including soldiers and foreign nationals, suffered minor wounds. Several buildings, including a military chapel, houses, and warehouses, were damaged. Fire officials evacuated residents as they searched for unexploded ordnance.
In response, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff suspended live-fire exercises but confirmed that the Freedom Shield drills, set to begin on March 10, would proceed as scheduled. The Air Force issued an apology and pledged compensation for damages.
The accident has sparked concerns over military safety protocols, with government officials and opposition leaders calling for a thorough investigation and enhanced security measures for training near civilian areas. The ruling People Power Party demanded a swift and transparent inquiry, while opposition leader Lee Jae-myung emphasized the need for stricter oversight.
The mishap comes amid heightened regional tensions, as South Korea and the U.S. prepare for joint exercises aimed at countering North Korean threats. Meanwhile, North Korea continues to deepen its military cooperation with Russia, including weapons transfers for the war in Ukraine.
