At least 15 people were injured in South Korea when a fighter jet accidentally dropped eight bombs on a civilian area during training for the upcoming Freedom Shield joint military exercise with the United States. The incident occurred in Pocheon, near the border with North Korea, when the bombs were released outside the designated firing range. Two civilians were seriously injured, along with two soldiers and two foreign nationals with minor injuries. Eight buildings were damaged, including a chapel, houses, and warehouses. Residents were evacuated as authorities searched for unexploded bombs.
The South Korean Air Force is investigating the cause of the accident and the extent of the damage. The mayor of Pocheon called for all military training to be suspended, describing the incident as a horrific accident. The U.S. and South Korean forces were conducting combined live-fire drills in Pocheon at the time of the accident.
The accident has raised concerns about safety management during military training near civilian areas. The People Power Party urged a transparent investigation, immediate support for affected residents, compensation plans, and enhanced safety measures for training grounds. Experts are still determining the cause of the accident, which could be related to the bombs, maintenance, aircraft, or human error. The South Korean Air Force expressed regret for the civilian damage and pledged to implement necessary measures, including compensation for damages.
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