A South Korean fighter jet bombing injured seven people after an Air Force KF-16 accidentally dropped 8 bombs in a civilian district. During a live-fire military exercise, the incident happened at 10:04 a.m. local time in Pocheon, a city near the North Korean border.
Authorities reported that four people suffered serious injuries, while three had minor wounds. A 60-year-old driver sustained a neck injury from shrapnel, and two others suffered fractures. A local care center confirmed that a teacher was hospitalized after the explosion shattered the building’s windows.
According to South Korea’s Air Force, the bombs landed outside the designated firing range due to an abnormal release from the KF-16. Officials assured the public they were investigating the incident and would compensate the affected residents.
The military deployed a bomb disposal team to remove seven unexploded bombs from the area safely. Eyewitnesses described the explosion as powerful, shaking buildings and causing widespread panic.
A resident identified as Mr Park recalled watching TV when a deafening blast rattled his home. “I suddenly heard an enormous explosion, like a thunderclap, and the whole house shook. When I went outside, everything was in chaos,” Park explained.
The accident also damaged homes, churches, and community buildings. Officials evacuated residents to prevent further casualties as emergency responders assessed the destruction. Images shared by local media showed shattered windows and a collapsed roof at a nearby church.
The defense ministry confirmed that the joint military drill with US forces led to the accidental bombing. The incident occurred before the upcoming Freedom Shield military exercises, which are scheduled for March 10 to March 20.
The mishap raises concerns as South Korea and the US remain cautious about North Korea’s growing alliance with Russia. The South Korean fighter jet bombing highlights the risks of live fire exercises near civilian areas, sparking debate over military safety protocols.
