The Ministry of Employment and Labor officially determined that there was 'harassment' regarding the workplace bullying allegations that led to the unfortunate death of late weathercaster Oh Yoanna, allowing the deceased's injustice to finally be rectified. MBC also accepted this result and promised 'appropriate measures' to those involved, marking a significant turning point in resolving the case.
On Jan. 27, a media report revealed the workplace bullying allegations against late Oh Yoanna. In particular, it shocked many when it was reported that the deceased's 17-page letter contained specifics of the bullying she experienced from two specific weathercasters.
According to the letter and testimonies from acquaintances, the deceased suffered from prolonged bullying and belittlement of her skills after being hired in 2021, beginning the following year, being blamed for airing false information and receiving criticism even for opportunities like variety show appearances. Acquaintances noted that the deceased reported these incidents to four MBC officials but received no substantial response, expressing their grievances.
In response, MBC established an investigation committee composed of external experts and internal personnel to uncover the truth behind the incident and has been conducting investigations. On the 19th, MBC stated that it would seriously accept the findings of the special labor supervision by the Ministry of Employment and Labor, which concluded that 'harassment' had occurred.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor's official determination signifies that the pain experienced by the deceased during her life, the contents left in her letter, and the claims made by her family and acquaintances urging for the truth to be uncovered, have been largely acknowledged as factual. This is evaluated as a crucial process in rectifying the deceased's injustice and restoring her honor.
MBC announced specific improvement plans to prevent recurrence, including enhancing organizational culture, complying with labor relation laws, resolving discrimination against freelancers and non-regular employees, and reinforcing systems to address potential issues arising between them.
In particular, MBC stated that it would promptly take legal measures to determine the employment status of some freelancers, garnering attention on the punishments for those accused of bullying late Oh Yoanna at the workplace. MBC outlined its improvement plans, affirming that it would implement appropriate measures regarding the employment status of some freelancers after legal review. However, as of now, the specifics regarding the level of 'appropriate measures,' personnel changes, and legal responsibilities have not been clearly disclosed.
The official determination by the Ministry of Employment and Labor and MBC's promise of action appear to be a meaningful process to provide justice for the deceased who suffered from workplace bullying and to prevent similar incidents from recurring. On Sept. 15, 2024, 247 days after the death, justice for the deceased was served, and it remains to be seen what specific actions will be taken against those involved.
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