Abolition of Whistleblower Reward Cap... Payment Within 30% of Recovered Amount

Payment of Allowance When Receiving Legal Assistance from a Lawyer

The cap on reward payments for whistleblowers has been removed, and payments will be made within 30% of the amount recovered by the state, local governments, or public institutions.

According to the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission on the 15th, the National Assembly passed an amendment to the Whistleblower Protection Act, abolishing the upper limit on whistleblower rewards. Previously, whistleblowers who helped restore or increase profits for public institutions could receive a maximum reward of 3 billion won.

Internal whistleblowers will receive attorney fees not only for anonymous proxy reports but also when receiving legal assistance during investigations, inquiries, or litigation by investigative agencies. Individuals who report interference with the use of radios by unregistered financial product sellers or 119 paramedics will also be protected and supported.

Jeong Seung-yoon, Secretary-General and Vice-Chairman of the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission, stated, “This amendment is expected to contribute to strengthening practical protection and support for internal whistleblowers and establishing a culture of integrity in society.”