SEOUL – The number of injuries from an accidental bombing by South Korean fighter jets on a civilian area has risen to 29, including 15 civilians and 14 soldiers, according to the country’s defense ministry.

The latest count includes cases of ear damage, migraines, and anxiety caused by the blasts, Defense Ministry spokesperson Jeon Ha-kyu reported on Friday.

The incident occurred when two South Korean fighter jets mistakenly dropped eight 500-pound (225 kg) Mk82 air-to-surface bombs outside a designated training area near Pocheon, approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) northeast of Seoul. The error was attributed to a pilot entering incorrect coordinates during a joint live-fire exercise.

The explosion caused significant damage to homes and buildings, as seen in video footage. Among the injured, nine individuals remain hospitalized, with two in serious condition.

As a precaution, live-fire exercises have been suspended until authorities fully investigate the mishap. However, the military confirmed that this would not impact the upcoming large-scale joint military exercises between South Korea and the United States, set to begin on Monday.

In response to the incident, dozens of activists and Pocheon residents gathered near the defense ministry in Seoul to protest the military drills, arguing that they pose risks to civilians.

"We, Pocheon citizens, are fundamentally questioning these ongoing military exercises," said Lee Myoung-won, a resident at the rally, expressing concerns over the purpose and safety of such operations.