Bystanders and Off-Duty Firefighters Revive Man After Cardiac Arrest at Table Tennis Tournament

A dramatic rescue unfolded during a table tennis tournament in Jeonju, South Korea, when a 50-year-old participant suddenly collapsed, suffering cardiac arrest. The incident, which occurred on the evening of August 22, saw bystanders and off-duty firefighters quickly mobilize to save the man's life.

As the man clutched his chest and felt dizzy, he fell to the ground. Immediate CPR was administered by those nearby. Simultaneously, a gymnasium official made an announcement seeking medical personnel and retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED) that was readily available. The 119 emergency dispatch center also provided guidance on CPR and AED usage to those on site.

Adding to the swift response, two firefighters, who were present at the gymnasium, rushed to the scene. They administered an electric shock using the AED and continued CPR alongside the citizens until the ambulance arrived. In a critical display of coordinated effort, the man's pulse was restored just four minutes after the emergency call was made. Paramedics then provided advanced care, including oxygen and continuous electrocardiogram monitoring, before transporting him to the hospital, where he reportedly regained full consciousness.

"The prompt CPR by the first witness is crucial for increasing the survival rate of cardiac arrest patients," stated Jin Hyeong-min, head of the Jeonbuk Fire Department. He expressed deep gratitude for the courageous actions of the citizens who did not hesitate in the critical moment.