Tragedy Strikes at World’s Second-Highest Bungee Jump: What Went Wrong

① The World’s Second Highest Bungee Jump

Originating from the coming-of-age ceremonies in Vanuatu, an island nation in Oceania, bungee jumping was initially performed without any safety measures, leading to numerous injuries and fatalities.

Since the 1980s, centered around Queenstown, New Zealand, it has been commercialized as a recreational activity named “bungee jumping,” complete with safety equipment.

The highest bungee jump in the world is at the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado, United States, at 1,053 feet (321 meters). However, this bungee jump is not regularly open, and even the event periods when it is available are currently suspended.

The second-highest bungee jump in the world, and the highest that is permanently open for use, is located at the Macau Tower, standing at an impressive 764 feet (233 meters).

In 2013, the Korean variety show “Running Man” featured actors Lee Dong Wook, Han Hye Jin, and Song Ji Hyo bungee jumping from this spot. Recently, girl group LE SSERAFIM members Kim Chae Won, Huh Yun Jin, and Hong Eun Chae also leaped here.

② Death Incident at Macau Tower Bungee Jump

Is jumping from a bungee jump at 764 feet (233 meters) safe? While accidents related to bungee jumping are not frequent, there have been instances of injuries or deaths due to negligence in safety equipment management.

In addition to safety equipment, accidents can occur due to the health issues of the bungee jump participants. Recently, there was a case where a Japanese tourist died at the Macau Tower’s bungee jump.

This was not a safety accident due to management negligence but an accident caused by the participant’s health problem. The Japanese man who had just completed a bungee jump at the Macau Tower complained of difficulty breathing and eventually died.

He was quickly transported to the hospital for emergency treatment. However, due to the nature of bungee jumping, which requires time to move the participant to a safe location, he was not able to receive proper treatment and was pronounced dead.

In a video covering the incident, an expert speculated, “It is possible that the sudden change in altitude caused a pressure difference, triggering arrhythmia and leading to cardiac arrest.”

In other words, the fear of the height of the bungee jump naturally accelerates the heart rate. At this moment, a sudden pressure difference could overwhelm the weakened heart, causing it to stop.

③ What You Should Know Before Bungee Jumping

When applying for a bungee jump at the Macau Tower, participants must inform the staff about their medical condition in advance. This includes high blood pressure, epilepsy, asthma, physical disabilities, and any past surgeries.

In addition, participants must sign a waiver acknowledging the risks involved and agreeing not to hold the company responsible in case of an accident.

Given the height of the Macau Tower’s bungee jump, it’s understandable if you’re hesitant to leap. In that case, there’s another way to enjoy your trip to Macau.

The Macau Tower features a track called ‘Skywalk’ that allows you to walk along the exterior of the observation deck. This ‘Skywalk’ is also popular, rivaling the thrill of bungee jumping.

By. Min Jae Kim