The Vancouver tennis community is reeling from the tragic loss of one of their own overseas. Nick Tjepkema, a respected 26-year-old tennis coach from Vancouver, was killed in South Korea while visiting the country, struck by an alleged drunk driver in what authorities are calling a preventable tragedy.
The incident occurred on June 8th around 3:30 a.m. in the Seogyo-dong district of Seoul's Mapo-gu area. Tjepkema was crossing the street when a vehicle struck him, throwing him approximately 50 meters according to police reports. Emergency services rushed him to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Driver Faces Serious Charges
South Korean authorities have taken the 40-year-old driver into custody after blood tests revealed a blood alcohol concentration of 0.113%, significantly above the country's legal limit of 0.03%. The driver now faces charges of driving under the influence resulting in death, a serious offense under South Korean law that could lead to substantial prison time.
"This was completely preventable," said a spokesperson from the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency. "The driver made the conscious decision to get behind the wheel while severely intoxicated, resulting in the loss of an innocent life."
A Life Dedicated to Tennis
Back in Vancouver, Tjepkema was remembered as an inspirational figure at the Pacific Tennis Centre in Richmond, where he coached players of all ages. Colleagues describe him as having an infectious passion for the sport and a natural ability to connect with students.
"Nick wasn't just a coach - he was a mentor and friend to so many in our tennis community," said Mark Bailey, director of the Pacific Tennis Centre. "His positive energy lit up the courts, and his dedication to his students was remarkable. We've lost someone truly special."
Family's Heartbreaking Loss
Tjepkema's family has been left devastated by the sudden tragedy. His sister, Lisa Tjepkema, described her brother as "the kind of person who brought joy everywhere he went" and had been excited about his travels in Asia.
"He was living his dream, exploring the world and sharing his love of tennis," she said through tears. "To have his life cut short by someone's irresponsible decision is unimaginably painful. We want his story to serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of drunk driving."
International Response and Warning
The case has drawn attention to the dangers Canadian travelers face abroad, particularly regarding road safety. Global Affairs Canada confirmed they are providing consular assistance to the family but declined to comment further due to privacy concerns.
Travel safety experts note that while South Korea generally has good road infrastructure, drunk driving remains a concern, especially in entertainment districts during late hours. They advise travelers to exercise extra caution when crossing streets, particularly at night.
The Vancouver tennis community has begun organizing memorial events and a scholarship fund in Tjepkema's name, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire young athletes for years to come.
