SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Two South Korean fighter jets accidentally dropped eight bombs in a city located northeast of Seoul during a training exercise on Thursday, injuring at least 15 people according to the latest reports.
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The MK-82 type bombs, which were released “abnormally” by KF-16 fighter jets, fell outside a shooting range, causing damage to civilians, as reported by the air force in a statement.
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It was also indicated that a commission will be established to investigate why the accident occurred and examine the extent of the damage to civilians. He said that the fighter jet was participating in joint air force exercises with the army using live ammunition. The United States Army was also involved.
The air force apologized for causing harm to civilians and expressed their wish for a speedy recovery for the injured individuals. They mentioned that they will offer compensation and other necessary measures to support the victims.
According to CNN, the bombs destroyed two residential buildings, part of a church, and a truck.
According to initial findings, the accident was caused because the bombing coordinates were entered incorrectly.
Where did the incident with the South Korean fighter jets occur?
The air force statement did not specify where the accident occurred. However, South Korean media reported that it took place in Pocheon, a city near the border with North Korea and located north of Seoul.
The Yonhap news agency, in its first report, indicated that five civilians and two soldiers were injured. It also stated that the injuries of two of the individuals were serious, but their lives were not in danger.
“The scene of the incident is chaotic, resembling a battlefield,” commented Baek Young-hyun, the mayor of Pocheon, in a statement to the local television.