Controversy Surrounds the Death of MBC Weathercaster Oh Yoo-anna Amid Bullying Allegations

The tragic death of MBC weathercaster Oh Yoo-anna has sparked controversy following the discovery of a suicide note that alleges workplace bullying. Oh, who passed away at the young age of 28 in September 2024, was confirmed dead by MBC officials, who expressed their condolences while being cautious in their remarks about her. The news of her passing began to circulate after the Chuseok holiday in mid-September, with her funeral held quietly at the family's request, and the cause of death remaining undisclosed.

On January 27, a report emerged stating that a 17-page suicide note was found on Oh's phone, detailing her experiences of bullying from two specific weathercasters. Oh, who became a freelancer at MBC in May 2021, claimed that the harassment began in March 2022. Allegations include being blamed for misinformation and being criticized for correcting errors, with reports of her being summoned to the office after hours and being prevented from leaving for extended periods.

Her rise to fame in 2022, particularly after appearing on the popular tvN show, You Quiz on the Block (유 퀴즈 온 더 블럭), also became a target for criticism, with many disparaging her abilities and questioning her presence on the show.

Despite informing four MBC officials about her situation, it was reported that no action was taken, as MBC stated that an investigation could only occur if there was a reason to do so. The alleged perpetrators, identified as weathercaster A and weathercaster B, have reportedly not responded to inquiries regarding the allegations.

Friends of Oh have begun to speak out, with one sharing on social media that she had been bullied for a long time by her senior colleagues and ultimately took her own life. They expressed concern that evidence might be destroyed and urged the public to be aware of the situation, calling for accountability for those involved in the bullying.

Another friend emphasized the emotional toll that the bullying took on Oh, stating that she had confided in them about the unwarranted ostracism she faced from certain colleagues. They called for the truth to be revealed so that Oh could find peace.

The incident has led to increased scrutiny of MBC and its handling of workplace bullying, with calls for a formal investigation. The names of the alleged bullies have circulated on social media, prompting discussions about accountability and the need for change within the industry.

Oh Yoo-anna was born in 1996 and began her career in entertainment as a trainee under JYP Entertainment in 2017. She later won a title in the 39th Chunhyang Festival and joined MBC as a weathercaster in 2021, gaining popularity through her television appearances.