Dongduk Women's University Withdraws Complaints Against Sit-in Protest Students: "Dialogue and Inclusiveness Over Punishment"

Dongduk Women's University has withdrawn all criminal complaints against students who staged a sit-in protest last year in opposition to discussions about transitioning to a coeducational system. As a result, after about half a year, the conflict between the university and the students appears to be moving toward resolution.

On May 15, Kim Myungae, president of Dongduk Women's University, announced the withdrawal of the complaints in an official statement. President Kim said, "Having experienced the unbearable internal and external circumstances, such as discord, distrust, and damage to the university's image, we have decided to withdraw the legal actions previously taken." She added, "This decision reflects our position as an educational institution that should resolve issues through dialogue and inclusiveness rather than punishment."

She continued, "As president, I once again express my sincere apologies for this incident and hope that such events will never happen again."

In response to the statement, the students who led the sit-in protest also expressed their regrets to the university community. The university's Emergency Student Council stated, "We recognize that there are differences in perspectives and positions between the university and the students," and added, "We sincerely regret the distress caused to faculty, staff, and students."

Along with the withdrawal of the complaints, the university and the students also announced a "University-Student Agreement for the Advancement of Dongduk Women's University." The agreement states that both parties will participate in communication to resolve the situation and actively pursue an amicable solution.

Previously, in November of last year, Dongduk Women's University students occupied the main building for 24 days and spray-painted campus facilities in protest, claiming that the university was preparing to transition to a coeducational system without sufficient discussion.

The university estimated the damages at up to 5.4 billion won and, under the president's name, filed police complaints against 21 people, including the president of the student council, on charges such as joint property damage and obstruction of business.