Naju City Expresses Regret Over the Rejection of the Reconsideration Request for the Dismissal Recommendation of the President of Energy University

Published 27 Oct.2023 16:51(KST)

Jeonnam Naju City expressed deep regret over the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy's (hereinafter referred to as the Ministry) dismissal of the request for reconsideration to withdraw the recommendation for the dismissal of Yoon Eui-jun, President of Korea Energy Engineering University.

On the 27th, Naju City stated, "The Ministry's audit and decision to dismiss the reconsideration greatly concern local residents about the negative impact of undervaluing the achievements and efforts Korea Energy Engineering University has made in energy research, technology development, and exchanges and cooperation with world-class universities within a short period since its establishment."

A panoramic view of Naju City Hall. [Photo by Naju City]

They continued, "We are also worried that negative perceptions may arise among President Yoon, faculty, staff, and students who have worked hard despite the difficult environment, including the unstable university operation system in the early stages of the university's establishment," expressing their concerns once again.

The city previously stated that the recommendation for dismissal of President Yoon, who was appointed as the inaugural president through a strict procedure, was excessively harsh and violated the principle of proportionality, even considering the nature and extent of the regulatory violations.

The city said, "Korea Energy Engineering University was established based on national policies and laws with the mission of national energy security in the era of energy transition," adding, "We expect the university's board of directors to make the right decisions with a future-oriented perspective so that the university, born amid national interest and expectations, can successfully carry out the national tasks of nurturing core energy talents, technology development, and stable growth."

Earlier, President Yoon Eui-jun was pointed out in the Ministry's audit for failing to report issues identified during KEPCO's work inspection (consulting) process to the board and the Ministry, neglecting work management and supervision, and improper execution of business promotion expenses.

In response, Korea Energy Engineering University applied for reconsideration to the Ministry, arguing that the Ministry's demand for the president's dismissal was a harsh and unfair request that violated the principle of proportionality. However, the Ministry announced on the 18th that it had dismissed the reconsideration.