On May 29, 2025, a South Korean Navy turboprop airplane crashed into a hillside during a training mission, resulting in the death of at least two crew members while search efforts continue for two others.
Two Lives Lost in South Korean Navy Plane Crash Near Pohang

Two Lives Lost in South Korean Navy Plane Crash Near Pohang
A tragic accident unfolds as a military aircraft crashes, leaving two deceased and two missing crew members.
The incident occurred at approximately 1:50 p.m. local time near Pohang, a city located about 250 miles southeast of Seoul. Reports confirmed that the aircraft, which was engaged in marine patrols, had taken off from an air base for a routine training session just five minutes before the tragedy unfolded. Eyewitness accounts describe the catastrophic moment, with local resident Kim Hong-gi stating he heard distinct sputtering sounds followed by a loud explosion before witnessing smoke rising from the accident site.
In response to the crash, local fire officials mobilized two helicopters and approximately 40 firefighters to manage the blaze and search for survivors. Initially, rescuers located two bodies near the wreckage within hours of the crash. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding what led to this devastating incident.
Pohang City officials confirmed the ongoing efforts to locate the remaining crew members and assess the situation further. Videos from local media depict a scene of smoke and chaos, underscoring the accident's severity and urgency. As the investigation continues, the South Korean military is grappling with the implications of this deadly crash during what was supposed to be a routine training operation.
In response to the crash, local fire officials mobilized two helicopters and approximately 40 firefighters to manage the blaze and search for survivors. Initially, rescuers located two bodies near the wreckage within hours of the crash. Authorities have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding what led to this devastating incident.
Pohang City officials confirmed the ongoing efforts to locate the remaining crew members and assess the situation further. Videos from local media depict a scene of smoke and chaos, underscoring the accident's severity and urgency. As the investigation continues, the South Korean military is grappling with the implications of this deadly crash during what was supposed to be a routine training operation.