"A Company That Is Different Inside and Out"… Daedoseogwan Apologizes for Employee Power Abuse Controversy

"Verbal Abuse Crosses the Line"... Controversy Over 'Eongkeuldaedo' Review

YouTuber Daedoseogwan. Photo by Daedoseogwan (YouTube screen capture).

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Midam] YouTuber Daedoseogwan (real name Na Donghyun, 43), who has 1.69 million subscribers, has addressed allegations of employee abuse of power. He apologized, saying, "It is a fact that seven employees left our company," and "I am very ashamed and sorry."

On the 19th, Daedoseogwan posted on his YouTube community, "I don't think there has ever been a day when I reflected on myself more than today," and added, "I sincerely apologized to the four employees who left and could be contacted, as well as the five employees who remain at the company. Unfortunately, three of the seven who resigned could not be reached, but I will sincerely apologize later."

Later, he also held an explanatory broadcast titled "I Apologize" on his YouTube channel. During the broadcast, he said, "I stayed up all night reviewing messages exchanged with employees before, and after thinking about many things, I realized 'I was wrong.' I felt ashamed and reflected on myself," and apologized, saying, "Without any excuses, I was definitely at fault and sorry for causing hurt. I feel sorry for putting too much burden and pressure on them."

Review of Daedogwan's company 'Uncle Daedo'. Photo by 'Job Planet' screen capture.

Earlier, a review about 'Uncle Daedo,' operated by Daedoseogwan, was posted on 'JobPlanet.' 'JobPlanet' is a site where users can anonymously post reviews about their companies based on their experiences.

The reviews of 'Uncle Daedo' included statements such as "A company that is different on the surface and inside. Treats talent like parts," "Work is manipulated and controlled according to the personal emotions of the CEO," "Not feedback on work but personal insults and verbal abuse go too far," and "The CEO suppresses lower employees as if his word is law."

One employee who left a review particularly pointed out, "I joined as a fan but left with mental illness," and criticized, "The CEO's habitual belittling and verbal abuse are problematic. Speaking informally to employees is basic; if he is even slightly upset, he naturally says 'Hey,' and does not hesitate to use verbal abuse like 'You seem like trash' or 'Have you ever edited before?'"

They continued, "The company is run at the CEO's whim," and criticized, "The CEO believes his word is absolute truth, and if there is even a slightly opposing opinion, he gets angry as if a rebellion has been committed. He has the mindset that because he is the boss, he can freely belittle subordinates."

There were also opinions that communication with Daedoseogwan is impossible. Another employee said, "There is no communication with the CEO. It's not that he is too busy to communicate, but he does not listen to employees. Interrupting speech is basic, and he consistently shows a belittling and dismissive attitude," adding, "Talking to a wall is more effective."