Two South Korean Air Force pilots were killed when a T-50 aircraft overturned during an emergency landing at the Gwangju base at 2:36 p.m. KST on Jan. 2, 2026, the Air Force reported. The incident occurred after an engine warning light activated during flight training, causing the jet to veer off the runway. The Air Force stated on Jan. 2 that the aircraft was taxiing to land when it overturned. No further details on the pilots' identities were immediately released. In a separate announcement, the Ministry of National Defense dismissed former Intelligence Commander Moon Sang-ho on Jan. 2 for his involvement in the martial law declaration on Dec. 3, stating severe disciplinary action would be taken. President Lee Jae-myung awarded a commendation to professional gamer Lee Sang-hyeok, known as 'Faker', during a New Year's greeting event at the Blue House guesthouse on Jan. 2, according to Yonhap News. Additionally, about 120 passengers on a Jeju to Pohang Jin Air flight faced delayed boarding on Jan. 2, with ground staff stating it was not a fire situation and requesting an alternative flight.
