Ongdong Post Office to remain open as branch after community outcry

Residents in Jeongseon, South Korea, can breathe a sigh of relief as their concerns over the impending closure of the Ongdong Post Office have been addressed. After a four-month-long dispute, an agreement has been reached to convert the post office into a branch office, preserving essential services for the local community.

The Ongdong Post Office, which has served as a designated post office since its establishment in 1966, plays a vital role in the daily lives of residents. It handles not only postal services but also financial transactions, utility payments, and package deliveries, acting as a crucial hub in the rural area.

The crisis began in March when the Jeonbuk Regional Postal Service announced the post office's closure. The situation escalated when the designated operator passed away, and no successor could be found, leading to fears that the post office would cease operations. This prospect caused significant anxiety among residents, particularly the elderly population, who rely heavily on the post office's proximity and services.

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We wanted to maintain the designated post office as it was, but we understood the difficult situation. We are grateful that it will operate as a branch office, even if the services are somewhat reduced.

In response, the Ongdong Township Headmen's Council initiated a petition drive, gathering over 700 signatures from residents demanding the post office's continued operation. During a community meeting, residents voiced their concerns, highlighting the potential hardship for the elderly and the loss of a vital public service in the rural area.

The National Office of Civil Complaints stepped in to mediate the dispute. On May 23, a field mediation meeting was held, resulting in an agreement between the relevant parties: the Korea Post, Jeongseon City, and the National Office of Civil Complaints. The compromise involves establishing the 'Jeongseon Ongdong Branch Office' starting July 6, ensuring that postal and financial services remain accessible to the public.

Under the agreement, the Korea Post will install temporary structures and necessary infrastructure for the branch office. Existing employees will be relocated to nearby post offices, ensuring their employment stability. This solution allows residents to continue using postal and financial services without interruption, averting the feared disruption of public services.

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We hope the operations will be carried out smoothly, just as residents used the post office before.