National Pension Service "Apologizes for Employee Marijuana Incident... Will Prepare Reform Measures"

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Jihwan] The National Pension Service (NPS) bowed its head on the 20th, expressing deep regret over the recent police investigation into fund management staff on drug charges.

Kim Yong-jin, the director of the National Pension Service, stated in a press release on the same day, "An unacceptable incident occurred recently where employees of the Fund Management Headquarters were found to have smoked marijuana," adding, "The NPS is a public institution responsible for managing the valuable assets of the people and securing their retirement, but instead of reassuring the public, we have caused disappointment and concern, destroying the trust we have painstakingly built over time in an instant." He apologized sincerely.

He emphasized, "As the head representing the institution, I feel deep sorrow and a heavy sense of responsibility," and "On behalf of all NPS employees, I offer a profound apology to the public."

Director Kim added, "The NPS fully recognizes the seriousness of this matter," and "We will not dismiss it as a mere individual deviation but will willingly accept the stern criticism from the public and use this as an opportunity to reform the institution."

He also said, "Many are concerned whether this incident might indicate the growth of other corrupt practices within the NPS," promising, "We will thoroughly examine all aspects of operations?from asset management to pension system administration, including organizational and personnel management, work processes, operational systems, and organizational culture?to identify problems and establish fundamental reform measures to implement."

The National Pension Service has decided to use this incident as a turning point for institutional reform. It plans to strengthen dismissal criteria for deviations and illegal acts that are unacceptable to public sentiment, applying strict punishment and a zero-tolerance policy. Furthermore, once the disciplinary actions against the involved employees are finalized, the details will be disclosed publicly.

Director Kim concluded, "I apologize once again for causing disappointment and concern during a time when many citizens are suffering due to the spread of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19)."