Spectators wait for the match before the professional soccer match between FC Seoul and Incheon United at Seoul World Cup Stadium on March 10, 2024 in Seoul, South Korea. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Mar. 13 (Korea Bizwire) –In an incident that has recently come to light, fans of the K-League, amidst the league’s ongoing box-office success with record-breaking attendance figures, performed emergency first aid to save a fellow passenger who collapsed on a train.
This act of heroism took place on the Airport Railroad, as fans were returning home from a soccer match.
According to reports from the Kukmin Daily, the incident occurred around 7 p.m. on March 10, as the train was en route from Gimpo Airport to Gyeyang Station.
An individual identified only as Mr. H, a dedicated Incheon United supporter who never misses a home or away game in Seoul, witnessed a man in his 50s, referred to as Mr. A, suddenly fall to the floor with a thud.
Mr. H recalled that the train was filled with Incheon United fans heading back from a match held at Seoul World Cup Stadium in Sangam. Upon realizing the emergency, passengers quickly dialed the emergency number 119 and initiated first aid procedures as the train reached Gyeyang Station.
To prevent Mr. A’s tongue from rolling back, fans used an Incheon United scarf to support his neck and ensure an open airway. They also loosened any tight clothing like his belt and shoes that could restrict circulation and gently massaged his limbs to help him stabilize.
The Incheon supporters, along with station staff, continued to provide first aid until the arrival of the emergency services, refusing to leave Mr. A’s side. Thanks to the swift action of these good Samaritans, Mr. A was safely transported to the hospital by paramedics, where he received treatment.
A firefighter confirmed that Mr. A was conscious and breathing upon transfer and that his life was not in danger.
Mr. H modestly downplayed his role in the rescue to the Kukmin Daily, stating, “It was just something that had to be done; it wasn’t anything extraordinary. Not only the Incheon supporters but also the station staff and other passengers pitched in. I just hope the patient recovers quickly.”
The match that day between FC Seoul and Incheon United, known as the “Gyeongin Derby,” was especially noteworthy as it marked the home debut of Jesse Lingard, a former English Premier League striker.
The game ended in a goalless draw, but the real victory was the demonstration of humanity and quick thinking by the K-League fans on their journey home.
Ashley Song (ashley@koreabizwire.com)
