Water park ordered to pay out NT$21m settlement

Taiwan's Supreme Court has finalized a ruling requiring the Tourism Administration and the New Taipei City Government to pay a total of NT$21 million to the families of seven individuals killed in a 2015 water park explosion. The blast occurred at the now-defunct Formosa Fun Coast in New Taipei City's Bali District when colored cornstarch powder used for special effects ignited, resulting in 15 deaths and nearly 500 injuries.

The decision upholds a February 2025 High Court retrial verdict that overturned previous losses for the victims' families. The court found that the two government agencies were liable because they were aware the venue was operating without a permit but failed to enforce penalties or corrective measures. While the National Fire Agency was cleared of dereliction of duty, the Supreme Court ruled that the negligence of the Tourism Administration and the New Taipei City Government contributed to the tragedy.

Each of the seven families will receive NT$3 million. Following the ruling, both the Tourism Administration and the New Taipei City government stated they would comply with the court's order and proceed with the compensation process.

(Source：Taipeitimes)