It has been one year and one month since the late weathercaster Oh Yoanna, who had raised allegations of workplace bullying, passed away. MBC has now issued an official apology and reached a settlement with her family.
At 10 a.m. on October 15th KST, a press conference and signing ceremony were held at the MBC headquarters in Sangam-dong, Mapo District, Seoul, attended by MBC President Ahn Hyung Joon and the bereaved family of the late Oh Yoanna.
President Ahn Hyung Joon stated, “First and foremost, we pray for the repose of Oh Yoanna, who passed away at such a young age. I extend my deepest condolences and sincere apology to her mother and family, who have endured unimaginable sorrow.”
He continued, “Today’s agreement also represents MBC’s commitment to ensuring that such a heartbreaking incident never happens again. In April, we established a new Office for Mutual Growth and Cooperation to serve as a dedicated channel for addressing grievances and conflicts among freelancers and all individuals working with MBC. We have also implemented regular training programs to prevent workplace harassment and unfair treatment.”
“As a responsible public broadcaster, MBC will continue to foster a culture of mutual respect and compassion while striving to build a safer and more inclusive workplace. Once again, we pray for the late Oh Yoanna’s eternal rest,” he concluded.
The late Oh Yoanna passed away on September 15th, 2023, at the age of 28. News of her death surfaced about three months later, after which her family disclosed her will, voice recordings, and messages found on her phone, revealing details that pointed to workplace bullying.
In December 2023, her family filed a KRW 510 million (approx. USD 370,000) damages lawsuit against a fellow weathercaster identified as A, alleged to be responsible for the bullying.
In May 2024, a special labor inspection by the Ministry of Employment and Labor concluded that Oh Yoanna had indeed suffered workplace harassment. However, the ministry determined that the legal provisions of the Workplace Harassment Prevention Act could not be applied, as she was classified as a freelancer rather than a full-time employee of MBC.
Last month, on the first anniversary of her passing, Oh Yoanna’s mother staged a hunger strike in front of MBC headquarters, demanding an official apology and measures to prevent recurrence. Following a tentative agreement between MBC and the family, the strike was ended on October 5th, after 27 days.
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