Central Government Tries "Freedom of Titles Day" Pilot, Using Nicknames Instead of Official Titles

Pilot Program for the Participation Innovation Bureau on December 30
Fostering a Culture of Open Communication Beyond Hierarchy

The Ministry of the Interior and Safety will conduct a one-day pilot program called "Freedom of Titles Day" for all employees of the Participation Innovation Bureau. The initiative aims to foster a culture of open communication by moving away from hierarchical interactions based on job titles and ranks.

According to the ministry on December 29, employees of the Participation Innovation Bureau will address each other by nicknames instead of job titles for one day on December 30. Rather than using titles such as Director, Section Chief, Team Leader, or Deputy Director, members will use self-chosen nicknames with the honorific "Nim" attached. Additionally, each department will be provided with light refreshments and opportunities will be arranged for members to naturally communicate using their nicknames.

This pilot program is part of ongoing efforts to reduce the psychological distance created by everyday titles and to build an organizational culture where opinions can be freely shared regardless of rank or years of service. A ministry official explained, "We expect this to serve as an opportunity to create an environment where all members, including junior civil servants, can express their opinions without hesitation."

Based on the results of this pilot, the Participation Innovation Bureau plans to assess employee feedback and the effectiveness of the initiative, and will continue to explore various communication methods to establish a culture of open discussion and improve organizational culture.

Hwang Myungseok, Director of the Participation Innovation Bureau, said, "Being called 'Hwang Banjang-nim' instead of my official title made communication feel much friendlier and more comfortable. Although it was a small experiment for just one day, I hope this initiative will lead to the spread of a horizontal communication culture based on respect and trust."