15 injured as South Korea fighter jets accidentally drop bombs

Fifteen people were injured, two of them seriously, after a pair of South Korean Air Force KF-16 fighter jets mistakenly dropped eight bombs in a civilian district during a live-fire military exercise, local media reported.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:04 AM local time (01:04 GMT) in the city of Pocheon, near the border with North Korea. The South Korean Air Force has launched an investigation into the mishap and issued an apology, pledging compensation for those affected.

While stray shells from military drills occasionally land near civilian residences, injuries resulting from such incidents are rare.

According to local reports, two individuals sustained severe fractures to their necks and shoulders. Additionally, a 60-year-old driver suffered shrapnel injuries to the neck when the explosions took place, according to Yonhap News Agency.

Authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure the safety of residents in the area. The Air Force has vowed to implement stricter safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.