Kakao Union Slams CPO's Exit Over Talk Overhaul, Citing 'Lack of Responsible Management'

The labor union representing Kakao employees has strongly criticized the resignation of Hong Min-taek, the Chief Product Officer (CPO) who spearheaded the recent overhaul of the KakaoTalk messaging app.

The union, affiliated with the Korean Chemical Fiber Food Industry Union, issued a statement on Tuesday expressing concern over what they perceive as a recurring pattern of executive departures following significant controversies. They argue that this practice demonstrates a "lack of responsible management."

According to the union, key executives who drive major decisions are leaving the company after facing criticism, leaving the consequences and the burden of failures to the remaining employees. This situation, they contend, undermines accountability within the company's leadership structure.

The "KakaoTalk Big Bang" initiative, led by Hong during his tenure, has been a focal point of the recent discussions and criticisms. The union's statement suggests that the company's approach to leadership accountability is flawed, particularly when significant projects face challenges or public scrutiny.