Seven individuals were injured, including four seriously, after a South Korean fighter jet accidentally dropped several bombs during a live-fire exercise, sparking concerns over safety protocols.
Accidental Bomb Drop Injures Seven During South Korean Military Drill
Accidental Bomb Drop Injures Seven During South Korean Military Drill
A military exercise gone wrong leaves civilians injured as a fighter jet accidentally releases bombs in a populated area.
In the city of Pocheon, South Korea, a KF-16 fighter jet was involved in an incident at approximately 10:04 AM local time, releasing eight MK-82 bombs outside designated firing zones. At least one bomb exploded, leading to injuries among nearby residents, prompting evacuations and emergency responses from the local authorities.
According to reports, two individuals sustained serious injuries, resulting in fractures, while one elderly driver was wounded by shrapnel. Witnesses described a "thunderclap" sound as the explosion shook homes, damaging windows and roofs, particularly affecting a church and a senior care facility.
The South Korean Air Force acknowledged the mishap and expressed regret, stating an investigation is underway. The authorities are working with bomb disposal teams to manage the remaining unexploded ordnance, and compensation plans for affected civilians have been discussed.
This troubling event occurred in the context of upcoming joint military drills with U.S. forces, with both countries increasingly vigilant of North Korea and Russia's relationship. This incident echoes previous concerns regarding military exercises in populated areas, including a similar malfunction during a 2022 exercise that had unsettling repercussions for local residents.
According to reports, two individuals sustained serious injuries, resulting in fractures, while one elderly driver was wounded by shrapnel. Witnesses described a "thunderclap" sound as the explosion shook homes, damaging windows and roofs, particularly affecting a church and a senior care facility.
The South Korean Air Force acknowledged the mishap and expressed regret, stating an investigation is underway. The authorities are working with bomb disposal teams to manage the remaining unexploded ordnance, and compensation plans for affected civilians have been discussed.
This troubling event occurred in the context of upcoming joint military drills with U.S. forces, with both countries increasingly vigilant of North Korea and Russia's relationship. This incident echoes previous concerns regarding military exercises in populated areas, including a similar malfunction during a 2022 exercise that had unsettling repercussions for local residents.
