Bungee jump operator from MBC's 'I Live Alone' to face labor ministry probe

The operator of a bungee jump facility that sparked a safety controversy on MBC's variety program "I Live Alone" will face an investigation by the Ministry of Employment and Labor.

The controversy stems from episode 669 of "I Live Alone," which aired Friday, in which actor Gu Seong-hwan attempted a bungee jump. Footage broadcast during the episode showed a staff member assisting Gu working without a safety helmet or a fixed safety harness.

The Gangwon Province branch of the ministry's Central Regional Employment and Labor Office has assigned a labor inspector to the case and is investigating whether the bungee jump facility operator violated the Occupational Safety and Health Act.

The probe was triggered by a workplace safety complaint filed Monday through the National Sinmungo public petition system in connection with the program.

The complainant asked authorities to verify whether the employee was wearing a safety helmet and harness, whether the harness anchor was properly connected, and whether safety railings and fall-prevention nets were installed around the jump platform.

The actual employment relationship between the facility operator and the on-site worker was also included in the complaint.

Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act, workers performing tasks at heights of 2 meters or more where there is a risk of falling are required to wear a safety helmet and harness. Violations can result in up to five years in prison or a fine of up to 50 million won ($37,700) for the business operator, while the worker may face an administrative penalty of up to 300,000 won.