South Korean Director Kim Chang-min Dies from Brain Hemorrhage After Restaurant Assault

South Korean Director Kim Chang-min Dies After Violent Restaurant Dispute

South Korean director Kim Chang-min has died from a brain hemorrhage sustained after being struck during an altercation in a restaurant, The Korea Times reports, citing family sources.

The incident occurred on October 20, 2025. According to relatives, Kim had visited a 24-hour eatery with his son when a dispute erupted among patrons over noise. During the confrontation, one of the men struck Kim, causing him to fall and suffer a severe head injury. He was later rushed to a hospital but could not be saved—he passed away several weeks later.

Initially, family members stated that the director had lost consciousness in the restaurant. They later clarified the details of the incident. Police sought to arrest the suspects on charges of involuntary manslaughter, but the court rejected the request. In March 2026, the case was referred to the prosecution.

Following Kim Chang-min's death, his organs were donated for transplantation, saving the lives of four patients.