울주군시설관리공단 전 이사장, 사직 후 선거캠프 갔다 복귀 시도 논란

In Ulju County, South Korea, the controversy surrounding the former chairman's sudden return to his post has sparked criticism. The Ulju County Public Institution Management Association (PIMA) announced the selection of two external experts as potential candidates for the vacant chairman position on January 30th, 2023, following the resignation of former chairman Choi Ae-mu.

PIMA members serve in a non-partisan capacity, and the ultimate decision rests with the Ulju County Governor. Choi Ae-mu, who had previously served as the chairman from November 2022 until his resignation in early 2023, returned to his role just months before the June 3rd local elections. His return sparked backlash, with critics questioning the propriety of his actions.

During his tenure, Choi Ae-mu publicly pledged to assist the incumbent Ulju County Governor in his re-election bid and engaged in election activities. A PIMA source told the Hankyoreh, "It's incomprehensible that someone who just left their post would return so quickly after securing a victory." The source added, "It seems like they are treating the chairman position as a form of political favor."

The County Government stated that they did not immediately appoint a replacement after Choi Ae-mu's resignation due to a guidance letter from the Ministry of Government Administration, which requested the avoidance of personnel decisions with potential for confusion in the lead-up to the 6th June local elections. Choi Ae-mu stated that the nomination committee would make the final decision regarding his return.

During the previous year, Choi Ae-mu faced criticism for his comments during the process of separating and transferring the Ulju Welfare Foundation's facility management work to the PIMA, which some deemed inappropriate.