An F-16C belonging to the South Korean Air Force crashed during night training near Yeongju. The pilot survived by using the ejection seat, and an investigation has been launched.
Accident During Night Training
A fighter jet belonging to the South Korean Air Force crashed during a training flight on the evening of February 25, 2026.
According to a statement by the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF), the single-seat General Dynamics F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft crashed in a mountainous area in North Gyeongsang Province. It was reported that the pilot safely exited the aircraft by using the ejection seat.
Pilot Caught in a Tree, Rescued at Night
According to the ROKAF statement, the pilot became lodged in a tree on a mountainside after ejecting. Initial reports indicated that he was located by emergency response teams at around 20:10.
However, local media reported that due to the rugged terrain, the rescue operation took longer and was completed late at night. The pilot was transferred to the Korean Air Force Aerospace Medical Center in Cheongju. It was stated that his condition was not life-threatening.
Forest Fire and Evacuation
Following the crash, a forest fire broke out in an area of approximately 660 square meters at the impact site. Authorities took precautions in the surrounding area due to fuel-related risks and the possibility of the fire spreading.
According to local sources, 13 residents were temporarily evacuated as a precaution and placed in a village building. Initial reports stated that there were no civilian casualties.
Accident Response Center Established
The South Korean Air Force announced that an accident response center had been established under the leadership of the Deputy Chief of Staff and that an official investigation had been launched to determine the cause of the incident.
Second F-16 Crash Within 24 Hours
The incident became the second reported military F-16 crash within less than 24 hours, following the crash of a Turkish Air Force F-16 near Balıkesir on February 25, 2026, in which the pilot lost his life.
The consecutive F-16 accidents in two different countries will be closely examined in terms of technical, operational, and training processes.
