25.10.23.Today News : Jeju Boxing Teen Unconscious for 50 Days…5 Officials Charged

Jeju Boxing Teen Unconscious for 50 Days…5 Officials Charged

📍No medical staff or proper emergency response at national boxing event — Korean Sports Association vows tighter safety measures

A 15-year-old middle school boxer who collapsed during a match at the National Presidential Boxing Championship in Jeju remains unconscious 50 days later. Five officials, including members of the Korea Boxing Association, are now under police investigation for professional negligence amid growing criticism over poor safety management at the event.

A middle school student who competed in a boxing tournament in Jeju remains unconscious for the 50th consecutive day, while five tournament officials are under police investigation on charges of professional negligence resulting in injury.

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🔹 15-Year-Old Boxer Still Unconscious After In-Ring Collapse
On September 3, during the 55th Presidential National Boxing Tournament in Seogwipo, Jeju, a middle school student from Muan, South Jeolla Province, collapsed in the ring after receiving multiple blows from his opponent.

He was rushed to a nearby hospital and underwent brain surgery but remains in a coma. Doctors say the boy suffered severe subdural hemorrhage and faces a long road to recovery.

🔹 No Medical Staff, Delayed Ambulance — “Total Safety Breakdown”
An investigation by the Korea Sports Council revealed that no medical professionals were present at the venue, despite regulations requiring doctors or nurses during boxing matches.

The private ambulance at the site lacked functional medical devices and failed to activate its siren. Due to confusion over the hospital route, the transfer was delayed — further endangering the athlete’s life.

🔹 Unlicensed Coach and Poor Reporting Protocols
The coach assisting the young athlete was found to be unregistered for 2025, violating official coaching requirements. In addition, both the Boxing Association and event organizers delayed incident reporting, fueling accusations of negligence and cover-up.

🔹 Five Officials Booked for Professional Negligence
The Jeju Police Agency has charged five individuals — including the Korea Boxing Association’s secretary general, the event referee, the athlete’s gym owner, and a private ambulance operator — with professional negligence resulting in injury.

Police said they are analyzing evidence to determine if additional suspects should be charged and promised a swift, thorough investigation.

🔹 Father’s Desperation and Sports Sector Introspection
The victim’s father, overwhelmed by frustration, attempted self-harm in the ring after the incident. Despite this, the tournament continued without interruption, drawing harsh criticism for its lack of empathy and responsibility.

The Korea Sports Council has since announced plans to enforce mandatory safety manuals across all sports federations, while Jeju authorities are preparing new comprehensive safety guidelines for local sporting events.

One-line summary : A middle school boxer in Jeju has remained unconscious for 50 days after collapsing mid-match, with five boxing officials charged for negligent safety management.