GWACHEON — Lee Jin-sook, a former journalist, has officially taken office as the head of South Korea’s broadcasting watchdog, the Korea Communications Commission (KCC), despite facing opposition protests over her previous management practices.
According to Yonhap News Agency, despite opposition from various parties concerning her past conduct at MBC—where she allegedly misused corporate funds and suppressed the labor union—Lee was appointed on Wednesday and began her duties in Gwacheon, south of Seoul. During her tenure at MBC, Lee was noted for her reporting on the Middle East and was recognized as South Korea's "first female war correspondent," covering significant events such as the Gulf War and the Iraq War. The confirmation process included a rare three-day hearing, reflecting the contentious nature of her appointment due to her controversial past at the public broadcaster.