A former gang member who later became a popular internet broadcaster has died in a car crash while live-streaming a cross-country cycling challenge.
According to local reports, the accident occurred at around 1.30pm on June 2 on National Road 25 near Seongdong-ri in Nakdong-myeon, Sangju, North Gyeongsang Province.
A 3.5-ton truck traveling to Sangju from Daegu reportedly crashed into a bicycle in front of it and then hit an SUV escort vehicle following it.
Following the collision, a man in his 40s, identified only as Mr A, who was on a bicycle, suffered a traumatic cardiac arrest. Rescuers performed life-saving measures at the scene, but he was later pronounced dead. The driver of the SUV, identified as Mr. B, suffered serious injuries and was transported to hospital for treatment.
Mr A was known as a former gang member who had built a following as an online streamer. At the time of the accident, he was reportedly conducting a live mission in which he and his fans were attempting to cycle from Busan to Seoul within three days.
The livestream challenge involved earning a pre-determined reward upon successful completion of the mission. Authorities believe Mr A was actively broadcasting when the incident occurred, while Mr B followed him in an SUV escort vehicle.
Investigators believe that during the transmission the truck hit both the cyclist and the vehicle accompanying him. Reports indicate that around 150 viewers were watching the live stream at the time of the incident.
Police are currently investigating the crash and suspect driver negligence may have played a role. Authorities are reviewing dashcam footage and witness statements to determine the exact circumstances of the fatal crash.
Sources: Naver
