Office for Government Policy Coordination "Strict Punishment for Lax Public Service Discipline and Political Neutrality Violations at End of Term"

[Sejong=Asia Economy Reporter Son Seonhee] The government has launched a campaign to tighten public service discipline at the end of its term. It plans to strictly punish lax work discipline and damage to dignity, and strengthen inspections to prevent violations of political neutrality obligations ahead of the presidential election in March.

According to the Office for Government Policy Coordination on the 18th, the government held a meeting of auditors from 47 central administrative agencies to share key initiatives for public service management in 2022 and discuss measures to strengthen public service discipline and management during the government transition period.

The Office for Government Policy Coordination stated, "With the presidential election in March followed by the nationwide local elections in June, the obligation of political neutrality for public officials is more important than ever. To prevent cases of lax public service discipline riding on the election atmosphere or the government’s trust being undermined by inappropriate remarks or behavior of some public officials, we decided to strengthen inspections centered on auditors from each ministry."

Furthermore, it added, "The key directions for public service management this year include 'enhancing the substance of inspections through organic cooperation among related agencies on public service discipline, blocking violations of political neutrality by public officials exploiting the election atmosphere, fostering a working atmosphere in the public sector through strengthened service management, and strictly punishing habitual misconduct and damage to dignity' to improve trust in the public sector."

The government plans to continue related inspection activities jointly with the Prime Minister’s Office and each ministry. The Office for Government Policy Coordination stated, "We plan to take strict measures based on a zero-tolerance principle against public officials found guilty of misconduct."