Introduction of Non-Identifiable Proxy Reporting, Abolition of Compensation Cap
The Ulsan Metropolitan Office of Education (Superintendent Cheon Chang-su) will strengthen the protection of whistleblowers by introducing anonymous proxy reporting starting January 2025.
To enable safer reporting of misconduct such as illegal sponsorship money in school sports teams, after-school programs, and bribery related to contracts, the office recently completely revised the "Ordinance on the Handling of Public Interest Reports and Protection of Whistleblowers in the Ulsan Metropolitan Office of Education" and established related guidelines.
The previously dualized regulations on public interest reporting and corruption reporting were integrated into a single ordinance, and the scope of public interest reporting was expanded to include the private sector, clarifying the definition of public interest reports. Specific reporting targets such as public interest violations, corrupt acts, and improper solicitation or acceptance of money or valuables were specified to reduce confusion among whistleblowers.
In particular, focusing on whistleblower protection, a new anonymous proxy reporting system was introduced. Whistleblowers can report through a dedicated lawyer without revealing their identity, and acts that obstruct or coerce the cancellation of public interest reports are strictly prohibited.
The Ulsan Office of Education also expanded support for whistleblowers. The previous cap of 50 million KRW on public interest report rewards was abolished, and rewards will be given when educational institutions gain financial benefits or prevent losses, while relief funds will be provided in case of damages.
Auditor Kim Kyung-hee stated, “With this ordinance revision, the regulations on protection, support, and compensation for whistleblowers have been strengthened, creating an environment where anyone can safely report irregularities in the educational field.”
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