A substitute driver who was assaulted in Hsinchu died despite emergency treatment. Police are investigating the circumstances of the attack and those involved.

According to accounts released so far, the victim was struck on the head even after he had fallen, and footage of his final attempt to flee has been confirmed.

Substitute driving often means sharing a car alone with a stranger late at night. Disputes over fares or changes of destination are not uncommon, and the trade has long called for safety measures.

Proposed responses include in-car audio and video recording, identity verification through booking apps and emergency alert buttons. Because most drivers work as individual operators, the cost burden is cited as an obstacle.

The case is an example of a chance dispute ending in a fatal outcome. Police plan to investigate the sequence of the assault while distinguishing the roles of those involved.

Safety for substitute drivers has been raised repeatedly in South Korea as well. With similar working arrangements and protections, there are points each society can take from the other.