▲ President Lee Jae Myung speaks during a Cabinet meeting at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul on Feb. 10, 2026. (Yonhap)

Lee-helicopter crash

Lee pays tribute to 2 soldiers killed in military helicopter crash

By Kim Eun-jung

SEOUL, Feb. 10 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung on Tuesday paid tribute to two soldiers who were killed in a military helicopter crash during a training exercise, pledging to honor their sacrifice and provide support to their families.

Lee shared the message on the social media platform X a day after two warrant officers died when an AH-1S Cobra helicopter went down in Gapyeong, about 55 kilometers northeast of Seoul, during a flight training mission.

"I bow my head in solemn tribute to their noble sacrifice and offer my deepest condolences," Lee wrote.

Lee said the two officers held onto control of the aircraft until the final moments to prevent civilian casualties, noting that the helicopter fell near a residential area.

"Had the aircraft veered even slightly off course, it could have resulted in a greater loss of life," he said.

Lee also extended "deep condolences and comfort" to the bereaved families, pledging to ensure they receive the recognition and support they duly deserve.

The Army said it plans to convene a review committee later in the day to determine whether the soldiers will be officially recognized as having been killed in the line of duty.

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