Why did North Korea launch ballistic missiles during the US-South Korea military drills?

North Korea launched ballistic missiles in response to the joint military exercises between the US and South Korea, which it views as a provocation and a rehearsal for invasion.

What was the nature of the accidental bombing incident involving South Korean jets?

The incident involved two South Korean KF-16 fighter jets mistakenly dropping bombs on a civilian area in Pocheon, near the North Korean border, due to human error. About 30 people were injured, and live-fire training was suspended pending an investigation.

How did the US respond to North Korea's missile launches?

The US condemned North Korea's actions and called on the DPRK to refrain from further unlawful and destabilizing acts. The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command stated that while the launches did not pose an immediate threat, they continue to monitor the situation.

What is the nature of the 'Freedom Shield' military exercises?

The 'Freedom Shield' exercises are annual joint military drills between the US and South Korea, involving various training activities such as urban warfare, field hospital operations, and air defense maneuvers. This year's exercises are set to last 11 days.

3 sources·World

North Korea Launches Ballistic Missiles Amid US-South Korea Military Drills

North Korea fired ballistic missiles following the start of joint military exercises by the US and South Korea, causing heightened tensions in the region.

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The launches come after South Korean and U.S. forces began their annual Freedom Shield exercise Monday.
North Korea fires missiles as US, South Korea begin their 1st joint military exercise of Trump's 2nd term
FOX News·10d
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The incident, in which a pair of South Korean KF-16 fighter planes dropped eight 500-pound bombs on a town near their intended mock target last week, injuring 15 people, sparked demands for completely halting the war games, due to go on for 10 days.
American-Korean War Games Fall Silent in Wake of Accidental Bombing of Civilian Area
New York Sun·10d
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North Korea has fired multiple missiles off its west coast, as the United States and South Korea kicked off annual joint military drills, Seoul’s military said.
North Korea Fires Missiles as US and South Korea Kick Off Joint Military Drills
Epoch Times·10d
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Right
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Mar 10th, 2025, 4:31 PM ET

Summary

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North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the sea in response to the commencement of annual US-South Korea military exercises. The US condemned North Korea's actions while South Korean forces enhanced their surveillance. An accidental bombing incident involving South Korean jets injured several civilians, prompting the suspension of live-fire training. North Korea criticized the exercises, labeling them provocative and a potential spark for conflict, while expressing concerns over US security interests.

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