Experience of Disaster Response Team in Jecheon Sports Center Fire

Purpose : This study aimed to determine the experiences of the disaster response team 9 participants who participated in the disaster after the fire incident occurred in Jecheon Sports Center and their meaning and essence. Methods : Nine disaster response teams were the subjects of the study, and Individual in-depth interviews were conducted. Data were collected online between January 6 and April 30, 2021, from the software Zoom^TM. This study was conducted as a qualitative study by applying Giorgi's phenomenological experiential research method, which has an advantage in revealing the essential structure and meaning of experience. Results : Three major themes were derived from the study results: the stimulus through unfamiliar experiences, the grievances due to work environment and regional characteristics, and dullness resulting from hiding and enduring. The following 17 sub-themes were identified: learning through unfamiliar experiences, frustration due to unexpected circumstances, shock from unfamiliar experiences, doing my best in the present, confidence due to increased experience, disunified system, intervention of various interests, the atmosphere that puts responsibility on others, inactive help, unforgettable regional characteristics, working without time to settle, tolerating it in my own way, memories left in the unconsciousness, sudden suffering from memories that come to mind, movement in anxiety and tension, dullness, work with colleagues in the same situation. Conclusion : This study is meaningful in that it attempted to provide basic data in preparing a long-term strategy for effective policy direction and institutional protection based on the systematic mental health management of the disaster response team. Additionally, this study's results can be used as primary data for future research among Disaster Response Team.