Hansung Sook Responds to 'Workplace Harassment' Allegations at Naver: "Took Responsibility by Resigning as CEO"

Hansung Sook, nominee for Minister of SMEs and Startups, stated on the 15th that she resigned from her position as CEO of Naver at the time to take responsibility for an employee's death that occurred during her tenure.

At the confirmation hearing held by the National Assembly's Industry, Trade, Energy, SMEs and Startups Committee on the same day, Representative Kim Sungwon asked, "Are you responsible for the employee's death caused by workplace harassment?" In response, Han said, "It was an extremely shocking incident, and I took responsibility by resigning."

She added, "I understand that some may question whether taking a position as head of the European business after that constituted taking responsibility," and continued, "I will reflect on the points you raised."

Hansung Sook, nominee for Minister of SMEs and Startups, is delivering opening remarks at the confirmation hearing held at the plenary session of the National Assembly's Industry, Trade, Energy, SMEs and Startups Committee on the 15th. Photo by Kim Hyunmin

The recent return of Choi Inhyuk, Naver's Head of Tech Business, who was identified as the perpetrator at the time of the incident, to the management team also became a topic of discussion. The committee requested Choi's attendance at the hearing, but he submitted a letter of non-attendance citing an overseas business trip.

Representative Kim also raised the issue of Naver's violation of fair trade regulations. He stated, "The Fair Trade Commission also determined that the manipulation of Naver Shopping's algorithm constituted unfair practices," and questioned, "Is it appropriate for someone who was the CEO of such a company to become the Minister of SMEs and Startups, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs?"

He further claimed, "Since 2016, Naver Pay has required sellers to submit handwritten statements in the form of letters of reflection," and argued, "It is inappropriate for the nominee, who served as an advisor to Naver until recently and is an interested party in various technology lawsuits involving the company, to serve as a cabinet member."

In response, Han stated, "I was not aware of the requirement for handwritten letters in the form of letters of reflection, and I need to verify this matter."