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South Korean F-16C Crashes During Night Training Near Yeongju as Pilot Ejects Safely

A senior-led task force has opened a probe into the cause.

Overview

  • The single-seat jet from Chungju Air Base went down at 7:31 p.m. during a nighttime training flight in mountainous terrain near Yeongju.
  • Emergency crews located the pilot around 8:10 p.m. after his parachute left him suspended in a tree, and he was later transported for medical evaluation.
  • A brush fire of roughly 660 square meters was contained, and local alerts prompted precautionary evacuations of nearby residents and hikers.
  • Authorities reported no civilian injuries or property damage, and the Air Force said the pilot was unharmed.
  • The Air Force formed an accident-response headquarters led by the vice chief of staff following orders from Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back to ensure recovery and a thorough investigation.