⚖️ Case Summary

Court & Date:
Suwon District Court, Civil Division 8 (Judge Jeon Bo-kyung), ruling delivered on August 27, 2025.

Case Number:
2023가단533744

Parties:

Plaintiff (A): Caddie injured during the incident

Defendant (B): Golfer who caused the injury


Incident Details:

In April 2023, Golfer B was preparing to tee off at a golf course in Yongin.

While walking toward the 1st hole tee box, B made a practice swing with a driver.

The club struck Caddie A in the face, causing multiple injuries including an orbital fracture, eye trauma, and concussion.


Criminal Proceedings:

B was summarily indicted for negligent injury (과실치상) and fined ₩2 million.


Civil Lawsuit:

A sued B, seeking ₩34.63 million in damages.


Court’s Judgment:

The court held B fully liable for the accident.

It found that B had a duty of care to check his surroundings before swinging, especially knowing that the caddie was nearby.

The judge rejected B’s argument that the caddie should have warned him or maintained a safer distance, noting that the caddie was simply performing normal duties.

The act of suddenly stopping and swinging near others was deemed unpredictable and negligent.


Damages Awarded:

Total: ₩20,320,000 (approx. ₩20 million)

Breakdown:

Medical expenses: ₩2.63 million

Lost income (1 month, not 3 months as claimed): based on ₩2.7 million monthly income8

Pain and suffering (consolation money): ₩15 million



Key Legal Finding:

The accident was caused entirely by the golfer’s negligence.

The caddie had no contributory fault.

Article: https://www.lawtimes.co.kr/Case-curation/212397