Seven individuals have sustained injuries, with four reported to be in serious condition, following an incident involving a KF-16 fighter jet from South Korea's Air Force that accidentally dropped eight bombs during a live-fire exercise in Pocheon, near the North Korean border. Authorities indicate that out of the eight bombs released around 10:04 local time, only one detonated.
Accidental Bomb Drop Injures Seven in South Korea
Accidental Bomb Drop Injures Seven in South Korea
A military drill in South Korea takes a dangerous turn as a fighter jet unintentionally drops bombs on a civilian area, resulting in injuries and evacuations.
According to local reports, two victims suffered serious fractures, and a 60-year-old driver was hospitalized due to shrapnel injuries. The area nearby has been evacuated, and a bomb disposal team is on site to manage the unexploded ordnance. The South Korean Air Force has acknowledged the mishap and is conducting an investigation, with promises of compensation for those affected. Damage has also been reported to residential buildings and a church.
Yang Uk, a military analyst, explained that the bombs' failure to detonate might be linked to their low-altitude drop. The defense ministry stated that the training exercise was part of a joint operation with U.S. forces, scheduled to continue with combined drills in March. This incident has sparked concerns amid ongoing tensions involving North Korea and Russia, especially after a previous malfunction during a joint drill in 2022.
Yang Uk, a military analyst, explained that the bombs' failure to detonate might be linked to their low-altitude drop. The defense ministry stated that the training exercise was part of a joint operation with U.S. forces, scheduled to continue with combined drills in March. This incident has sparked concerns amid ongoing tensions involving North Korea and Russia, especially after a previous malfunction during a joint drill in 2022.
