At least 15 people were injured in South Korea after fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs on a civilian area in Pocheon, near the border with North Korea, during a training linked to joint military drills with the United States. The South Korean Air Force stated that the training was in preparation for the annual U.S.-South Korea joint military exercise known as Freedom Shield. The bombs were dropped outside the designated firing range due to pilot error and misfired. Four people were seriously injured, including two civilians, and eight buildings sustained damage. The South Korean military suspended live-fire drills but continued with the planned exercise.
The People Power Party called for a transparent investigation, support for affected residents, compensation plans, and enhanced safety measures for training grounds near civilian areas. The main opposition Democratic Party also urged a thorough investigation into the incident. U.S. Forces Korea, as a treaty ally, did not comment on the incident. The Freedom Shield exercise aims to strengthen the defense posture of the U.S.-South Korea alliance against threats from North Korea. Since the last exercise, North Korea has strengthened its partnership with Russia, including support for the war in Ukraine. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining safety protocols during military training near civilian areas.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
