Yeongam High School in Jeonnam Faces 'Sexual Harassment vs. Power Abuse' Legal Battle... Only Students Suffer

"School Becomes a Legal Battlefield"
Union Plans Press Conference, Police Investigation Underway
"Delete the Recording" - Pressure on Reporters as Conflict Spills Over
School Administration Paralyzed, "Only Students Suffer"
Education Office Launches Audit

A high school in Yeongam, Jeonnam, has fallen into severe turmoil as allegations of power abuse and sexual harassment between the principal and the administrative director have escalated into lawsuits and criminal complaints.

According to the education sector on January 8, the Jeonnam Office of Education's public officials union is scheduled to hold a press conference on January 9 to condemn the principal's abusive language and misconduct at the school.

The union claims that the principal has repeatedly subjected administrative office staff to unfair treatment by abusing his position of authority, and plans to call for severe disciplinary action. The administrative director has also accused the principal of verbal abuse and spreading false information.

A high school in Yeongam, Jeonnam, has fallen into severe turmoil due to allegations of power abuse and sexual harassment between the principal and the administrative director. Photo by Lee Jungkyung

In response, the principal recently filed a complaint with the Yeongam Police Station, accusing the administrative director of sexual harassment and defamation. The case has since been transferred to the Jeonnam Provincial Police Agency, where an investigation is underway. The principal has also taken a firm stance, stating an intention to file a complaint regarding the critical banners installed near the school by the union.

During the conflict, the administrative director reportedly contacted this newspaper's reporter multiple times to express dissatisfaction with the coverage. It is said that the director was particularly sensitive about the management of the coverage, including requesting the deletion of an audio recording that he had personally provided.

With those in charge of the school now entangled in police investigations, an audit by the education office, and legal disputes, the school has effectively come to a standstill. Internal divisions and conflicts surrounding the principal and the administrative director have intensified, resulting in students bearing the brunt of the fallout.

A local education official stated, "With the principal and the head of administration engaged in legal battles, students' right to learn is being seriously infringed upon," and added, "A prompt audit by the Jeonnam Office of Education and a rigorous investigation by judicial authorities are needed."