Golf Caddy Fined 4 Million Won for Negligence Leading to Golfer's Blindness

A court in Cheongju has handed down a 4 million won fine to a 30-something golf caddy, identified as Mr. A, for professional negligence resulting in serious injury. The incident occurred on June 11, 2023, at a golf course in Ochang-eup, Cheongju, when a golfer's errant shot struck another player, leading to the loss of an eye.

The prosecution detailed that Mr. A, while on duty, failed to properly manage safety protocols. A golfer was preparing for their third shot on the 7th hole, approximately 130 meters from the green. Crucially, another golfer, Mr. B, was positioned about 15 meters to the right and front of the intended shot's path. Despite Mr. B's proximity, the caddy did not warn him or direct him to a safer location before allowing the shot to proceed.

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The court ruled that the defendant had a duty to confirm if there were people in the direction of the shot and ask them to move, but failed to take any measures while staying near the cart about 40 meters away.

The impact was direct and severe, causing Mr. B to sustain an eye rupture and other critical injuries, ultimately leading to irreversible blindness in one eye. The court's ruling emphasized the caddy's duty to confirm the presence of individuals in the line of fire and take appropriate safety measures, noting that Mr. A remained near a cart about 40 meters away and took no action. This negligence directly resulted in the severe harm inflicted upon the victim.

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It is acknowledged that the defendant's professional negligence caused the victim to suffer serious injury.