MBC Ends Contract with Weathercaster Accused of Harassment

MBC has announced the termination of its contract with a weathercaster identified as A, who was accused of workplace harassment against the late weathercaster Oh Yoo-anna. This decision, made on May 20, follows the Ministry of Employment and Labor's findings from a special inspection on May 19, which confirmed that harassment had occurred against Oh.

Oh Yoo-anna joined MBC in 2021 and tragically passed away in September 2022. While the exact cause of her death was not disclosed at the time, suspicions of workplace harassment arose earlier this year when her suicide note was made public. The note detailed harassment from two senior weathercasters, leading her family to file a civil lawsuit against one of them.

The Ministry of Employment and Labor determined that Oh had received guidance and advice from her colleagues, but this escalated into repeated criticism and mental pressure. They concluded that the emotional distress she experienced, along with the unnecessary comments and the contents of her note, constituted harassment.

However, the Ministry clarified that Oh did not qualify as a 'worker' under the Labor Standards Act, meaning the legal provisions against workplace harassment did not apply in this case, highlighting a gap in the system.

In response, MBC stated that it takes the findings seriously and will prioritize improving organizational culture, preventing recurrence, and complying with labor laws. The network also promised to take appropriate actions regarding those involved and to review and enhance its existing plans for cultural improvement.