A tragic incident at Changwon NC Park has left a community in mourning after a 20-year-old woman, referred to as A, succumbed to injuries sustained from a falling structure while watching a baseball game. The NC Dinos organization confirmed her passing on March 31, 2025, at 11:15 AM, following a harrowing two-day struggle in the intensive care unit.
The accident occurred on March 29, 2025, during a regular season game between the NC Dinos and LG Twins. At approximately 5:17 PM, a steel structure attached to a window on the outer wall of a store on the third floor collapsed, falling about 10 meters and striking three female spectators who were waiting in line in front of the store.
A was critically injured by the falling structure, which was identified as an aluminum exterior material known as 'Louvre.' Measuring 2.6 meters in length and 40 centimeters in width, the structure weighed approximately 60 kilograms. After being rushed to the emergency room, A underwent emergency surgery but tragically passed away just two days later.
Among the other injured was B, a teenage girl who is A's sister, who suffered a fractured collarbone and is currently receiving treatment. Another individual sustained minor injuries but has since been released from medical care.
The police have launched an investigation into the incident, working alongside the National Forensic Service to determine the precise cause of the accident. Masan Dongbu Police Station officials stated that they are considering whether there was negligence in the construction or maintenance of the structure.
In response to the incident, the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) canceled the NC-LG game scheduled for March 30, 2025, and initiated an immediate safety inspection of the stadium. Following the announcement of A's death, the KBO declared a mourning period from April 1 to April 3, during which all professional baseball games, both major and minor league, will be suspended to honor the victim.
The three-game series between the NC Dinos and SSG Landers, set to take place from April 1 to April 3, will now be postponed. The games that do proceed on April 2 in Seoul, Suwon, Daejeon, and Gwangju will be held without fans, with all players wearing mourning ribbons to pay tribute to A.
In a statement released via social media, the NC Dinos expressed their condolences, stating, "We extend our deepest sympathies and apologies to the bereaved family. We are committed to doing everything necessary to assist and ensure that such an incident does not happen again." They emphasized their commitment to working with relevant authorities to investigate the cause of the accident thoroughly.
The community of Changwon is grappling with the shock of this tragic event, as many fans had gathered to enjoy a day of baseball, only for it to end in heartbreak. The KBO has pledged to enhance safety measures across all stadiums, ensuring that the safety of fans remains the top priority.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the families affected by this tragedy and preventing such incidents in the future. The NC Dinos and KBO are taking proactive steps to ensure that all facilities are safe and secure for fans attending games.
