A South Korean navy patrol aircraft crashed into a mountainous area near Pohang on Thursday afternoon, local authorities confirmed. The incident occurred at approximately 1:50 p.m. (0450 GMT) in the southeastern coastal city, sparking immediate emergency response efforts.
Yonhap News Agency reported that four crew members were aboard the aircraft when it went down. Rescue teams have been dispatched to the rugged terrain along the east coast, though details about casualties or survivors remain undisclosed as operations continue.
Pohang, a key industrial and military hub, hosts multiple defense installations. The crash has drawn attention to aviation safety protocols in the region, with military officials pledging a full investigation. Analysts note the incident occurs amid heightened regional security activities, though no immediate connection to broader geopolitical tensions has been established.
This development underscores the strategic importance of South Korea's defense infrastructure while raising questions about operational readiness. Business communities are monitoring potential impacts on regional stability affecting supply chains and cross-border logistics.
