🔹 Key Ruling

A South Korean court held a golf course 30% liable for injuries caused by a ball that ricocheted off a rock and struck a player.

The court awarded the victim approximately 21.9 million KRW (~$16K USD) in damages.



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🔹 What Happened

The incident occurred at a golf course in Pocheon.

Conditions were hazardous:

Foggy weather

Wet, slippery ground from recent rain


The golfer slipped while taking a shot near a small stream.

The ball hit a rock and unexpectedly rebounded, striking the golfer’s face.



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🔹 Why the Golf Course Was Liable

The caddie:

Recognized the situation was dangerous

Failed to warn or stop the golfer


The court ruled:

Caddies have a duty of care to prevent foreseeable harm

The golf course is responsible as the employer (vicarious liability)




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🔹 Why Liability Was Limited to 30%

The injured golfer also bore responsibility:

Failed to exercise sufficient personal caution

Proceeded with a risky shot despite conditions


Result: comparative negligence applied



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🔹 Damages Breakdown

Lost income + medical expenses: ~39.7 million KRW

Court applied 30% liability → partial compensation

Additional pain and suffering damages: 10 million KRW



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🧠 Takeaway

Even in a sport where “watch your swing” is gospel, the court drew a clear line:

Golf courses (and caddies) must actively warn against obvious risks

But players are not off the hook for their own safety


A split of responsibility, like a ball bouncing between fairway and hazard ⛳

Article: https://www.lawtimes.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=217879