Presidential Office Reviewing Dismissal of Lee Jinsook, KCC Chair, for Violation of Political Neutrality Duty

Kang Yujeong, spokesperson for the Presidential Office, is giving a briefing on current issues related to the Cabinet meeting on the 29th at the Yongsan Presidential Office building in Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News

The Presidential Office announced on the 29th that it is reviewing the dismissal of Lee Jinsook, Chairperson of the Korea Communications Commission, by authority.

Spokesperson Kang Yujeong stated during a briefing at the Yongsan Presidential Office in the afternoon, "It is true that we are considering her dismissal by authority, as violations such as the breach of political neutrality obligations by Chairperson Lee are quite serious."

Kang explained, "The Board of Audit and Inspection reached a conclusion regarding Chairperson Lee's violation of the political neutrality obligation earlier last month," adding, "It has already been revealed that she violated the political neutrality obligation required of public officials."

The grounds for Chairperson Lee's dismissal by authority, as outlined by Spokesperson Kang, are Article 65, Paragraph 4 of the State Public Officials Act, which prohibits political activities, and Article 63 of the same act, which stipulates the duty to maintain dignity.

The Board of Audit and Inspection issued a 'caution' last month, stating that Chairperson Lee violated the obligation of political neutrality by appearing on a YouTube broadcast, mentioning a specific political party, and expressing opposition.