In a shocking accident during a military exercise in Pocheon, South Korea, fighter jets accidentally dropped powerful explosive devices on a civilian neighborhood, injuring 15 people and damaging homes and a church.
How Did This Happen?
🔹 Two KF-16 fighter jets were conducting live-fire drills near the North Korean border when a pilot mistakenly entered the wrong coordinates.
🔹 As a result, eight 500-pound Mk82 explosives were dropped outside the designated training zone.
🔹 All detonated on impact, causing a massive explosion that shattered windows, destroyed property, and left two people in critical condition.
What Did the Military Say?
💬 The South Korean Air Force apologized, expressing regret over the incident and wishing a speedy recovery to the injured.
💬 Officials confirmed that live-fire training will be temporarily suspended until the cause is fully investigated.
💬 However, the major U.S.-South Korea joint military drills set for March 10-20 will continue as planned.
Eyewitness Accounts & Public Outrage
📸 Shocking security footage showed a huge explosion engulfing a neighborhood, just moments after a vehicle passed through.
🏚️ Local residents have long complained about the dangers of training exercises near civilian areas, and this disaster has renewed calls for stricter safety measures.
📢 Pocheon’s Mayor Baeck Young-hyeun called the incident “unthinkable” and urged the government to prevent future tragedies.
Why This Matters
These joint U.S.-South Korea drills are designed to prepare for potential threats, including North Korea’s growing military ties with Russia. This year’s exercises are expected to include 70 large-scale training sessions, reflecting lessons learned from recent conflicts.
🔎 Authorities are now investigating the exact cause of the mishap and considering new safety protocols for future military exercises.
