Audit Board Chairman: "Reports of Delaying Nuclear Power Plant Audit Due to External Pressure Are Not True"

Choi Jae-hyung, Chairman of the Board of Audit and Inspection, Expresses Intention for Prompt Conclusion on the Audit of the Validity of Early Closure Decision of Wolsong Nuclear Power Plant Unit 1

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] Chairman Choi Jae-hyung of the Board of Audit and Inspection clarified that the claim that the announcement of the audit on the appropriateness of the early shutdown decision of Wolseong Nuclear Power Plant Unit 1 was delayed due to external pressure is not true, as the audit has been prolonged beyond the deadline.

On the 5th, Chairman Choi stated in a position paper titled 'Remarks Regarding Recent Media Reports' that "Although the matter was complex and time was tight during the audit process, causing us to miss the legal deadline, the reports by some media outlets claiming that the announcement of the audit results is being delayed due to external pressure or political considerations are completely false."

Audit Board Chairman: "Reports of Delaying Nuclear Power Plant Audit Due to External Pressure Are Not True"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

Chairman Choi added, "I deeply apologize for not being able to complete the process within the period stipulated by the National Assembly Act," and "As the Chairman of the Board of Audit and Inspection, I fully acknowledge my responsibility for not concluding the audit within the legal timeframe."

Regarding reports that audit commissioners appointed during the Moon Jae-in administration are blocking the announcement of the audit, Chairman Choi pointed out, "I cannot help but express deep concern that some media opinions, without basis, may damage the public's trust in the Board of Audit and Inspection."

Chairman Choi said, "The audit results are finalized through the resolution of the Audit Committee, and the Board of Audit and Inspection has not reached any conclusion regarding the Wolseong Unit 1 audit to date," adding, "We will conduct a thorough investigation according to laws and principles and do our best to conclude it as soon as possible."