South Korea's training mishap: 29 injured in bombing error
As a result of the mistaken bombing of a village in South Korea by fighter jets during military exercises, 29 people were injured, including 15 civilians.
A tragic incident occurred during joint military maneuvers between the US and South Korea. According to the Polish Press Agency, two KF-16 fighter jets mistakenly dropped eight Mk 82 bombs outside the designated training ground in the town of Pocheon, about 40 kilometres northeast of Seoul. As a result of this event, 29 people were injured, including 15 civilians.
As reported by the Yonhap agency, citing sources in the air force, it is suspected that the accident was caused by an error by one of the pilots who entered incorrect target coordinates before the flight. The explosion of the bombs damaged civilian structures, including homes and a church.
The South Korean air force apologized for the incident and committed to compensating all those affected. The military also suspended all exercises involving live ammunition until the matter is clarified. An investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of this tragic event.
Consequences of the bombing
Initially, there were reports of seven injured, but the latest data indicates 29 casualties, including 14 soldiers. The injuries of two civilians are described as serious. The South Korean authorities and the Yonhap agency emphasize that the situation is being monitored and that necessary assistance is being provided to those affected.
The mayor of Pocheon, Paek Young-hyun, stated that there are as many as three military training grounds near the village where the bombs fell. According to euronews.com, the accident happened a few weeks before South Korea and the United States joint maneuvers. The "Freedom Shield" exercises are held annually and are one of the elements of increasing the allies' readiness to respond to threats from the regime in Pyongyang.
