Good Samaritan Law in Korea: Protection for Helping Others

The Good Samaritan Law in Korea, known as the 'Civil Liability for Assisting Others Act', was enacted in 2014 to encourage citizens to assist others in emergency situations. It provides legal protection to individuals who offer reasonable assistance to others in distress, without expecting any compensation or reward. This law aims to alleviate concerns that people may have about potential legal consequences while helping someone in need.

Under the Good Samaritan Law, individuals who voluntarily assist someone in an emergency situation are exempt from civil liability unless they have acted with gross negligence or intent to cause harm. This means that if a person's actions were reasonable and intended to help, they cannot be held legally responsible for any damages or injuries that may occur during the rescue attempt.

In practice, the application of the law depends on the specific circumstances and the judgment of the court. If a person is accused of causing harm while attempting to help, the court will assess whether their actions were reasonable and whether they acted with gross negligence or intent. If the court determines that the individual acted reasonably and without gross negligence, they will be protected by the Good Samaritan Law.

It is important to note that the Good Samaritan Law does not provide absolute immunity, and there may still be situations where individuals could face legal consequences for their actions. For example, if a person is found to have acted recklessly or irresponsibly during a rescue attempt, they may still be held accountable.

Overall, the Good Samaritan Law in Korea aims to encourage citizens to assist others in emergency situations without fear of legal repercussions, as long as their actions are reasonable and not grossly negligent.