Pocheon City, Gyeonggi Province, stated its position regarding the ‘Dismissal of Ambassador Lim Young-woong’, stating that “there has never been a review”.

Pocheon City stated on the 10th that “there has never been a review regarding the dismissal of Ambassador Lim Young-woong, and the article claiming that Pocheon City would consider dismissing him is false”, and “we have strongly requested that the relevant media outlet revise the article that does not match the facts.” In addition, he added, “Pocheon City will continue to make efforts to deliver factual news to its citizens.”

An earlier media outlet reported that a petition demanding the dismissal of Lim Young-woong as Pocheon City‘s public relations ambassador had been received, and Pocheon City plans to look into the city’s ordinance.

The background to the petition is that on the 7th, when the country was turned upside down by the ‘martial law situation’, and citizens were protesting after the impeachment bill against President Yoon Seok-yeol was rejected, Lim Young-woong posted a picture of himself celebrating his dog‘s birthday on his SNS.

On that day, a netizen revealed a direct message (DM) exchanged with Lim Young-woong. The netizen said to Lim Young-woong, “What are you doing in these times? I don’t want you to speak up, but you‘re really insensitive. Aren’t your main consumers the same age as those who experienced martial law?” Lim Young-woong responded curtly, saying, “What?” and “Am I a politician?” and “Why am I raising my voice?”

The post went viral online, and netizens continued to criticize Lim Young-woong for his reckless attitude and remarks. Lim Young-woong’s side has remained silent on the matter to this day.

Meanwhile, Lim Young-woong was appointed as the public relations ambassador for Pocheon City in July 2019 and is currently working there.
Reporter Lee Seul-bi, Donga.com misty82@donga.com