According to the aeronautics, the two officers, a colonel and a lieutenant colonel, did not fulfill their legal duties by neglecting the safety protocols and supervision. The authorities established that their actions constituted a “serious violation of duty” due to the inadequate supervision and the management of the commands.
The accident occurred on March 6 when two KF-16 combat jets erroneously dropped eight bombs 82, each containing almost 90 kg of high explosives, in a residential area near the Seung-Jin training field, about 35-40 km from the North Korean border. The explosion wounded 24 civilians and 14 soldiers, while 99 buildings were destroyed or damaged.
An initial investigation revealed that the first pilot entered the incorrect coordinates and skipped a check phase due to a printing error. He also falsely reported that he had visually confirmed the target position. The second pilot, despite inserting the correct coordinates, followed the instructions of the first pilot due to the simultaneous structure of attack perforation.
In response, the Air Force will examine the qualifications of both drivers next week to determine if they are able to continue to manage combat jets. In addition, all training exercises over high heat have been temporarily suspended until the completion of a complete investigation.
On March 10, the head of the Air Force staff Lee Young-Su publicly apologized, recognizing the inability of the army to protect civil life and property. He promised to prevent similar accidents, take responsibility as a commander and guarantee compensation and medical support for affected civilians.
