Chinese bus driver, suffering stroke, steers Korean tourists to safety

Bus driver Xiao Bo, who was transporting a group of Korean tourists and their guide in Zhangjiajie, China, brings the vehicle to a stop while losing consciousness due to a brain hemorrhage in this CCTV footage from June 29. Screenshot from Weibo

A Chinese bus driver is being hailed as a hero after saving 11 Korean tourists and their guide from potential disaster — just moments before collapsing from a fatal brain hemorrhage.

On June 29, Xiao Bo, 41, a retired soldier working as a bus driver, was transporting the group near the scenic city of Zhangjiajie, Hunan province, when he began experiencing symptoms of a brain hemorrhage.

At around 9:13 p.m., while driving across a high bridge, the bus suddenly veered erratically, alarming the guide and passengers. Despite losing consciousness, Xiao managed to turn off the engine and engage the handbrake, bringing the bus to a safe stop.

CCTV footage from inside the bus showed Xiao fighting to remain conscious for 41 seconds, ultimately losing consciousness only after ensuring the vehicle was secure. All passengers escaped unharmed.

Xiao was rushed to a nearby hospital but died three days later. According to local news reports, his quick thinking and sense of duty, rooted in his military background, likely prevented a tragedy.

The story gained attention after the Korean tourists, upon returning home, sent a red banner expressing their gratitude to Xiao’s bus company.

In Chinese culture, such banners, often emblazoned with golden characters, serve as a profound symbol of honor and heartfelt gratitude, typically presented to individuals or organizations who have demonstrated exceptional service, heroism or generosity.

Local outlets have lauded Xiao’s professionalism and selflessness, highlighting his commitment to passenger safety.