Kakao's Kim Beom-su Speaks Out on Performance Evaluation Conflict: "Warning Signs in Company Culture"

Beom-su Kim, Chairman of the Kakao Board of Directors

[Asia Economy Reporter Buaeri] Kim Beom-su, chairman of the Kakao board, recently addressed the controversy surrounding the personnel evaluation system, stating, "There should be no acts of ignoring or bullying anyone within the company." This is the first time Chairman Kim has commented on the issue.

On the afternoon of the 25th, Kim held a 'Brian After Talk' session with Kakao employees and said, "This issue signals a warning about our corporate culture," emphasizing, "We must be very careful not to harm or hurt anyone in the workplace."

The controversy arose after a 'suicide note' was revealed, in which a Kakao employee complained about workplace bullying. Some Kakao employees also raised concerns about the personnel evaluation item stating 'I don't want to work with you.'

Kim stated, "We are perfectly imperfect beings, but how we respond and apologize when we make mistakes reveals the company's culture," adding, "I hope we can create a mature and admirable culture."

He continued, "I want the Kakao community to become a healthy organization," noting, "Conflicts and clashes are natural, but what matters is how well we recover. It would be good if we take care of and comfort those around us."

Regarding his decision to donate half of his wealth (approximately 5 trillion won), Kim said, "My role model is Bill Gates. I want to use the funds immediately where needed," adding, "I want to structure it so that a few hundred billion won are spent annually. It would be great if we could solve some social problems by investing large-scale capital."

He also expressed his intention to nurture AI talent. Kim explained, "I am interested in people who have not had opportunities due to digital education gaps and AI talents," and added, "We are also considering an AI campus for talent development."

Regarding compensation issues such as bonuses, Kim said, "I believe the best talent should receive the best treatment," and added, "If compensation is lower than competitors, it should be improved quickly. While we may not be able to balance it now, we will adjust it from a long-term perspective."

Meanwhile, Kakao plans to hold an additional internal meeting on the 2nd of next month to discuss the personnel evaluation system and related matters.