South Korea Air Force Accidentally Drops Bombs, Injuring 15 in Pocheon

On Thursday, during joint live-fire exercises in Pocheon, South Korea, a KF-16 aircraft accidentally dropped eight MK-82 bombs outside the designated range, injuring 15 civilians, including two seriously. The incident caused significant damage to residential buildings and a church, prompting evacuations in the area as authorities searched for unexploded ordnance. The South Korean Air Force expressed regret over the incident and stated that an accident response committee has been established to investigate and provide compensation. This military exercise was part of preparations for the upcoming Freedom Shield drills, designed to enhance readiness against North Korean threats. The drills incorporate strategies based on recent global conflicts and aim to address North Korea's increasing ties with Russia. Local residents have long protested the risks associated with training exercises in proximity to civilian areas.