"Superintendent Kim Daejung Praised Unusually by Assemblyman Jin Nam Kim for Working Like President Lee Jaemyung"

On November 14, the final day of the administrative audit of the Jeonnam Office of Education, Assemblyman Jin Nam Kim (Democratic Party of Korea, Suncheon District 5) of the Jeonnam Provincial Assembly drew strong empathy from faculty and staff with his composed yet incisive remarks.

Presenting an analysis of overseas training and business trips, he emphasized, "When Jeonnam educators travel abroad, they should at least follow the example set by Superintendent Kim Daejung."

Jin Nam Kim, Former Jeonnam Provincial Assembly Member

원본보기 아이콘

Assemblyman Kim stated, "I analyzed data on overseas trips taken by the Office of Education, educational support offices, and affiliated institutions over the past several months," and pointed out, "I hope that, by referencing the grueling schedules handled by Superintendent Kim Daejung overseas, these trips and training sessions will become more meaningful."

Although he did not cite specific examples, his calm tone was regarded as containing sharp criticism.

◆ Mass Distribution of Ice Makers as "Swift Administration"... High Praise for Superintendent Kim Daejung's Leadership

Assemblyman Kim especially praised Superintendent Kim Daejung's "quick execution." Relaying feedback from school meal cooks struggling with extreme heat in the kitchens during the summer, he explained, "Cooling scarves or work uniforms provide only short-term relief and can be dangerous in high-temperature environments."

He continued, "The cooks collectively requested the installation of ice makers. When I conveyed this to Superintendent Kim Daejung, he called it a 'warm yet cool suggestion' and immediately decided to proceed." He added, "As a result, 426 ice makers have now been distributed to school cafeterias across Jeonnam."

Assemblyman Kim said, "The Office of Education has been evaluated as working swiftly and effectively," and praised it as "an exemplary case where voices from the field were accurately reflected in policy." He also asked attendees to "give Superintendent Kim Daejung a big round of applause."

◆ Sharp Critique of the 'Kiosk-Style Work Attitude'... "Education Must Be Rooted in a Spirit of Community"

However, his remarks were not limited to praise. Assemblyman Kim pointed out the issue of "work fragmentation," referencing recent cases where some kindergarten meal staff refused to handle snack-related tasks, claiming it was not part of their role.

He expressed concern, saying, "There is talk these days that people are 'working like kiosks' in schools. This attitude of picking and choosing tasks, or asking how much they will be paid for certain work, is spreading."

Quoting remarks by Education Committee Chair Kim Jeonghee, he stressed, "Education must be based on service, cooperation, and dedication. If we start focusing only on job boundaries, the greatest harm will ultimately fall on the children."

Assemblyman Kim concluded by saying, "I hope Superintendent Kim Daejung will firmly steer the direction of education in Jeonnam once again. If fast leadership and execution, as shown in the ice maker case, are applied, the field can change significantly." He ended by expressing his wish that "education in Jeonnam will become an organization that pulls together, not one that pushes people away."

© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.