2 Injured in Military Explosion Accident... "Worried It Will Be Covered Up Amid a Secretive Atmosphere"

Explosion during material transport operation in Yanggu, Gangwon... Injuries to leg and others from debris
Military expresses "deep condolences, will do its best in follow-up measures" in response to compensation demands

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] Voices are rising to urge compensation for soldiers injured in the explosion accident in Yanggu, Gangwon Province.

The accident occurred around 11 a.m. on the 31st of last month inside a security exhibition hall of an army unit in Haean-myeon, Yanggu-gun, Gangwon Province, when an explosive detonated during a material transport operation. Two soldiers involved in the operation were injured by shrapnel to their legs and heels and were urgently transported to the Armed Forces Capital Hospital in Seongnam, Gyeonggi Province, where they are receiving treatment.

While the cause of the explosion has not yet been determined, some have pointed out that a thorough investigation and punishment of those responsible are necessary. According to Yonhap News on the 5th, a soldier identifying himself as A from an army unit under a certain division where the explosion occurred stated on Facebook that "two soldiers carrying explosives, which were judged to have inactive detonators, were seriously injured."

A expressed, "Fortunately, thanks to the prompt response of the medics, the condition of the injured soldiers did not worsen, but one soldier lost his heel, had an artificial bone implanted, and calf flesh grafted," adding, "If things go wrong, he may limp for life or have to use a wheelchair, and in extreme cases, amputation might be necessary," expressing concern.

He emphasized the need for a proper investigation and apologies and accountability from the commanding officers. He pointed out, "All explosives judged to have inactive detonators actually had live detonators," and "In such a situation, another young life is exposed to the dangerous 'Bumojia Operation'." He continued, "There is no guarantee that such accidents will not happen again," and raised his voice saying, "Commanding officers, including responsible officials, must apologize and take responsibility."

He particularly urged for proper compensation for the injured soldiers. A said, "The only compensation given to those who devoted their youth for the country and safety is damage compensation of 10 to 15 million won and benefits as national merit recipients," expressing anger, "It is truly regrettable that this is the level of compensation and treatment for young people with many years ahead of them."

He also criticized the military's atmosphere in dealing with this accident. A said, "Currently, amid frequent tragic national incidents such as the Itaewon disaster, there is a mood within the unit to hush up this accident due to army science combat training (KCTC) and other exercises, and I even feel it is being largely buried." This reflects concern that the accident, which occurred two days before the explosion on the 29th of last month in Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, a major disaster that drew national attention, is receiving relatively little attention.

Regarding this, the unit stated that they are doing their best in follow-up measures such as treatment and compensation. In the post by A, the unit conveyed, "We express deep condolences to the soldiers and their families injured in this unfortunate accident," and "Currently, the Army Investigation Unit is investigating the cause and circumstances of the accident, and based on the results, plans to take necessary measures including handling related personnel and establishing safety measures." They also added, "We will prioritize the safety of soldiers and implement follow-up measures such as mine detection."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.