Kim Hong-il, the now-former head of the Korea Communications Commission, departs from the government complex in Gwacheon after his resignation ceremony on July 2, 2024. (Shin So-young/Hankyoreh)
Kim Hong-il, the former head of the Korea Communications Commission, resigned to avoid impeachment after facing accusations of railroading important decisions without necessary approval. His resignations come after seven months in office, with President Yoon Suk-yeol immediately accepting it. The likely successor is Lee Jin-sook, former head of MBC’s Daejeon branch.
Lee Dong-kwan, leaves the government complex in Gwacheon after a ceremony marking his resignation as head of the Korea Communications Commission on Dec. 1, 2023. (Yonhap)
Kim’s resignation follows the introduction of an impeachment bill by the opposition, citing illegal operations of the KCC and a “two-person system.” This move raises concerns over the government’s interference in media operations and governance. The media industry urges a thorough review of broadcasting laws to protect press freedom.
By Park Kang-su, staff reporter
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