New development regarding the bombing of civilians in South Korea: The cause has been revealed
In South Korea's Gyeonggi province, it was reported that two KF-16 fighter jets accidentally dropped 8 MK-82 type bombs on a rural residential area during a joint exercise with the US. It was announced that at least 29 people were injured and many buildings were damaged in the incident. South Korean authorities noted that the cause of the accident has been determined.
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The South Korean Air Force confirmed as a result of the preliminary investigation that the accident was caused by pilot error. It was determined that the pilot of the first aircraft carried out the bombing operation without verifying the target coordinates.
Examinations revealed that the pilot was required to check the target coordinates three times during the mission, but did not follow this procedure. Authorities stated that the pilot continued with the bombing operation without verifying the coordinates.
South Korean Air Force Chief of Staff General Lee Young-su took responsibility for the incident and stated the following:
'The air force, which should protect the life and property of the public, has this time caused harm to the public. This accident must never happen again.'
General Lee emphasized that necessary measures will be taken to prevent similar incidents. Lee added that the damages will be compensated.
REFORM DECISION FROM SOUTH KOREA
Authorities also shared information that the instructions given by superiors were insufficient. The Air Force announced that reforms will be made in training and procedures to ensure the incident does not recur.
The South Korean Air Force announced that it will take the necessary measures following the accident that occurred during the exercise. Stating that medical assistance has been provided for the injured, authorities announced that the repair process for the damaged buildings has also been initiated.
Following the accident in South Korea, it was suggested that the F-16 aircraft that bombed the region might belong to the US. Emphasizing that no US personnel or aircraft were involved in the accident, South Korean authorities announced that they would be 'more sensitive' regarding the selection of exercise areas.