Climate Ministry Union Demands Independent Probe into Officer's Death

Public sector unions gathered outside the Blue House on Monday, demanding an independent investigation into the recent death of a 30-something administrative officer within the Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Environment. The National Public Officials' Union (KPSU) and the Federation of Korean Public Officials' Unions (FKOEU) assert that the officer's death was not an isolated incident but a result of systemic problems.

Union representatives argue that the officer faced excessive work, insufficient staffing, and routine work directives outside of official hours. They contend that the ministry's recent integration of energy departments from the Ministry of Environment and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy led to a significant increase in workload without adequate personnel adjustments. The formation of hastily assembled task forces and a performance-driven organizational culture were also cited as contributing factors.

"The field is at an unsustainable level due to insufficient personnel, endlessly increasing tasks, and work orders outside of working hours," stated Eun Jun-ki, head of the KPSU's Climate Ministry branch. He highlighted the deceased officer's sentiment that the organization lacked an "incubating system," urging for improved training, mentoring for new employees, and dedicated personnel.

The unions are calling for an independent investigation involving external experts and organizational members to clarify the circumstances of the death and the work environment at the time. They also demand the prohibition of routine work orders after hours and on weekends, except in emergencies directly related to public safety. Furthermore, they seek accountability for managers who failed to protect employees, with consequences reflected in performance reviews and personnel actions, and the establishment of anonymous reporting channels and psychological support systems for workplace bullying.

Lee Cheol-su, president of the KPSU, emphasized the need for legal safeguards to protect the labor rights of public officials, stating they are workers protected by the constitution. Gong Ju-seok, president of the FKOEU, urged the passage of four specific laws aimed at preventing workplace bullying among public officials, including amendments to the National Public Officials Act and the Civil Petitions Treatment Act, and called for severe disciplinary actions, such as dismissal, for those engaging in illegal activities.