A South Korean fighter jet inadvertently dropped eight MK-82 bombs on a civilian area during a training exercise, resulting in injuries to seven individuals. The KF-16 aircraft, involved in joint live-firing drills with the army, released the bombs in an abnormal manner, leading to their detonation outside the designated firing range.
In response to the incident, the South Korean Air Force announced the establishment of a committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the anomaly and to assess the extent of damage caused to civilians. The air force issued an apology for the distress caused and expressed hope for the swift recovery of those affected. Furthermore, they committed to providing compensation and taking necessary actions for the victims.
While the official statement did not specify the exact location of the incident, local media reported that it took place in Pocheon, a city situated near the border with North Korea. Reports from Yonhap News Agency mentioned that of the injured, five were civilians and two were military personnel, with the condition of two individuals being serious but not life-threatening. The incident also resulted in damage to seven buildings in the vicinity.
The military continues to face scrutiny, and further developments regarding the investigation and the impact on the civilian population are anticipated.