Warplanes belonging to the South Korean Air Force accidentally bombed a residential area due to a confusion in coordinates. Following the fatal error, live fire and flight exercises were suspended.

According to Yonhap, Colonel Ryan Donald, the spokesperson for the US Forces Korea (USFK) based in South Korea, made a statement regarding the “Freedom Shield” exercise, which was supposed to be the first major joint exercise between the two countries since President Donald Trump took office in January.

ALL LIVE FIRE AND FLIGHT EXERCISES HALTED Colonel Donald stated that all live fire and flight training included in the exercise scheduled to start on March 10 were suspended after the accidental bombing of the exercise area by South Korean warplanes.

INVESTIGATION INTO THE CAUSE OF THE ERROR Ongoing investigation into the exact cause of the accidental bombing is being conducted, and it was reported that once the cause is determined and necessary measures are taken, the exercise will continue as planned.

Donald emphasized, “We take this incident very seriously. We are in close coordination with the South Korean Ministry of Defense. We are committed to conducting a comprehensive and transparent investigation.”