The military and health authorities have launched an investigation after suspected mass food poisoning symptoms broke out among recently enlisted Air Force trainees.

According to the military on August 23, around 70 Air Force trainees (the 881st class) undergoing training at the Basic Military Training Group under the Air Force Education and Training Command have shown suspected food poisoning symptoms, such as abdominal pain and diarrhea, since August 17.

They received medication and intravenous fluid treatment at the base hospital, and are reported to have mostly recovered and returned to their units.

The Air Force stated that there are no severe patients.

Local health authorities are currently conducting an epidemiological investigation, and the possibility of poor management of food ingredients by a private outsourced catering contractor has also been raised.

The Air Force explained that immediately after the incident occurred, it conducted a special joint sanitary inspection of all cafeterias within the base and instructed all trainees to wear masks and strengthen personal hygiene management.

(Photo provided by Air Force, Yonhap News)