Yangyang County in Gangwon apologized for the recent controversy over a Grade-7 civil servant's alleged abuse of sanitation workers.
In a statement on the 23rd, Yangyang County said, "We will thoroughly strengthen protective measures throughout the entire process so that the victim does not suffer any psychological or work-related disadvantages," and "We deeply regret causing great concern to the public over a case of workplace harassment among our staff."
It also said, "We are closely investigating the facts in accordance with relevant laws and regulations," and "We recognize this incident as an issue for the entire organization and will hold those responsible to account regardless of rank or position."
Earlier, media reports raised allegations that A, a Grade-7 driver civil servant affiliated with Yangyang County, had committed workplace harassment, including assault and coercion, against sanitation workers.
A reportedly engaged in so-called "martial law play," used violence, made workers run behind a garbage truck without letting them ride, or forced them to wear red underwear. When stocks A invested in suffered losses, the loser of rock-paper-scissors was allegedly beaten, or workers were forced to invest in stocks. The victimized sanitation workers plan to file complaints with the police and the Ministry of Employment and Labor (MOEL) on charges including assault, coercion, and intimidation.
After becoming aware of the incident, Yangyang County strengthened protective measures by immediately separating the perpetrator and the victims. On the 24th, A will be reassigned to a different department, excluded from duties related to the sanitation workers, and disciplinary procedures will proceed based on the investigation results.
The county will also provide the victimized employees with psychological counseling through a professional counseling agency and promote comprehensive recovery support, including linkage to healing programs, vacation support, and adjustments to the work environment.
Yangyang County decided to completely overhaul its workplace harassment prevention system in light of this incident. It will strengthen prevention training for all employees and supplement an anonymous protection system that allows reports without fear of retaliation.