Chinese Bus Driver Fights to Protect Korean Tourists Even While Losing Consciousness from Cerebral Hemorrhage

Despite the Crisis, Driver Manages to Stop the Bus Himself
Bus Driver Passes Away Three Days Later
Koreans Whose Lives Were Saved Send Condolence Money

A story has recently come to light about a Chinese bus driver who, while transporting a group of Korean tourists at the famous tourist destination of Zhangjiajie, did everything in his power to stop the bus and protect the passengers just before losing consciousness due to a cerebral hemorrhage.

According to Chinese media outlets such as China Central Television (CCTV) and Jimu News on July 11, the tour bus driver, Xiaobo (41), was driving on a highway near Zhangjiajie at night on June 29, carrying 11 Korean tourists and one tour guide. While driving, Xiaobo suddenly lost consciousness, and the vehicle began to sway. The bus moved in a zigzag pattern on a bridge several tens of meters high, and the startled tour guide called out to the driver, but he did not respond.

CCTV footage capturing Xiaobo's response. Weibo capture, Yonhap News

However, Xiaobo appeared to briefly regain consciousness. He quickly decelerated and braked, then turned off the engine and pulled the parking brake, flawlessly completing the procedures to bring the bus to a stop. CCTV footage from inside the bus shows that he fought for 41 seconds before completely losing consciousness.

Thanks to Xiaobo's actions, the bus came to a stop on the highway, and all 12 passengers were unharmed. Xiaobo, who gave his all to protect the passengers in a life-or-death situation that could have led to a major disaster, was immediately taken to Zhangjiajie People's Hospital for treatment. However, despite three days of intensive care, he never regained consciousness and passed away on July 2. The diagnosis was cerebral hemorrhage.

After returning to Korea, the tourists and the guide sent a red silk banner and condolence money to Xiaobo's company through the travel agency to express their gratitude. Xiaobo was known to be a military veteran, and local media described him as a "hero who responded as a true veteran."