Political Outcry Following the Death of MBC Weathercaster Oh Yoanna

The tragic passing of MBC weathercaster Oh Yoanna has sparked widespread criticism towards the broadcasting company, reaching the political arena as well. On January 30, lawmaker Ahn Cheol-soo from the People Power Party took to Facebook to express that "MBC must take responsibility for the workplace bullying allegations." He highlighted that Oh, who passed away in September 2024, had suffered from prolonged workplace harassment, and her family is now pursuing civil action against her alleged harasser, a colleague at MBC.

Ahn shared his sorrow for the family, especially as they face the upcoming Lunar New Year without their loved one. He extended his condolences to the bereaved family and emphasized the ongoing issue of workplace bullying in society, noting that a staggering 70% of non-regular workers in broadcasting have reported experiencing harassment.

Oh Yoanna, who was actively working as a weathercaster, died unexpectedly last September, with news of her death only surfacing three months later. Allegations of workplace bullying emerged posthumously, revealing that she had reportedly endured harassment from two senior weathercasters and had sought psychiatric help, leaving behind 17 letters.

In response to the allegations, MBC stated that they were unaware of any formal complaints made by Oh regarding workplace bullying. They claimed that had they been informed, they would have conducted an investigation. MBC also expressed readiness to investigate if the family provides the newly discovered letters as evidence.

Ahn criticized MBC's response, stating, "It is disappointing that four months after her death, no investigation or action has been taken. The claim that they could not act because she did not report the incidents is irresponsible." He urged MBC to adopt a more accountable stance regarding the allegations of workplace bullying.

Oh Yoanna, born in 1996 and a graduate of Seoul Institute of the Arts, entered the entertainment industry as a trainee under JYP Entertainment in 2017. She was later selected as a contestant in the 39th Chunhyang Festival before successfully passing the MBC weathercaster recruitment exam, marking the beginning of her broadcasting career.