"Disgusting Victim Cosplay" Seoul National University Dean of Student Affairs Resigns

"I take responsibility and step down from my position"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Byung-don] On the 12th, Koo Min-kyo, the Dean of Student Affairs who posted a rebuttal on his personal social networking service (SNS) regarding claims that workplace bullying influenced the death of a Seoul National University cleaning worker, announced his resignation.

In a statement released that day, Dean Koo said, "I will take responsibility and step down from the position of Dean of Student Affairs."

Dean Koo expressed his intention to resign from the Dean of Student Affairs position to the school in the morning, and it is expected that the acceptance of his resignation will be decided within the day.

Earlier, on the 9th, he posted a message on SNS containing expressions such as "It is disgusting to see people pretending to be victims one after another over a tragic death," which sparked controversy. Following the backlash, it is reported that he offered his resignation to avoid burdening the school.

Meanwhile, on the same day, the Seoul National University student group "Joint Action to Create a Seoul National University Without Irregular Workers" issued a condemnation statement urging, "The school must stop distorting and belittling rightful anger with impure intentions and actively respond to demands to prevent further loss of workers."

They criticized, "Inappropriate remarks have continued from officials constituting the Seoul National University authorities, including the Dean of Student Affairs, the dormitory deputy director, and Professor B of the Graduate School of Public Administration."

They added, "Until the school cooperates with the joint labor-management investigation team to uncover the truth, forms a consultative body to correct military-style labor management, and officially apologizes to the deceased, the bereaved family, and the workers, we will not cease our legitimate demands."