Mayor Moonin of Buk-gu Apologizes as "National Singing Contest" Backup Dancer Controversy Grows

Controversy Over Official Business Trip Participation
Buk-gu Launches Internal Audit

Moonin, Mayor of Buk-gu, Gwangju, has apologized to staff and residents after it became controversial that civil servants danced together on stage at the "National Singing Contest."

Moonin, Mayor of Buk-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan City, is making a policy proposal speech to President Lee Jae-myung at the National Policy Briefing for Mayors, County Governors, and District Heads held at the Blue House State Guesthouse on the 12th. Photo by Yonhap News

On the 17th, Mayor Moon posted an "Apology Letter to Staff Regarding the National Singing Contest" on the Saeol administrative bulletin board, stating, "I deeply apologize for causing concern." He continued, "I have been tormented by the thought that, as mayor, I have undermined the hard-earned efforts and pride we have built together," adding, "It is painful to be subject to criticism and harsh scrutiny due to my lack of consideration."

He said, "Throughout my more than 40 years in public service, my guiding principle has been improving the quality of life for residents, and that driving force has always been my fellow public officials." He added, "I will use this incident as an opportunity to reflect on my original intentions. I hope all of you will continue your work without wavering."

On the 6th of this month, Mayor Moon sang on stage during the recording of KBS's "National Singing Contest" held at Dongkang University, and it became known that eight female civil servants danced behind him, sparking controversy. It was also revealed that they had applied for official business trips to participate. As a result, the Ministry of the Interior and Safety requested a written explanation from Buk-gu, and Buk-gu launched its own internal investigation starting that day.

Buk-gu is currently investigating whether the activity can be considered official work and whether participation was voluntary. An official from Buk-gu stated, "The intention was to showcase singing and dancing as a way to harmonize with residents, but the situation escalated unexpectedly," adding, "The mayor feels very sorry and heartbroken toward both staff and residents."

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