Head of foundation for NK defectors suspended from duties over alleged sexual harassment

Head of the Korea Hana Foundation Cho Min-ho speaks during a press meeting in Seoul, Dec. 27, 2023. Yonhap

The unification ministry on Friday suspended the head of the Korea Hana Foundation, a public institution supporting North Korean defectors, from duties over allegations he sexually harassed an employee.

The action came after the foundation's board of directors last month recommended dismissing President Cho Min-ho over allegations that he made sexually discriminatory and harassing remarks to an employee. The dismissal process is currently under way.

Earlier in the day, the unification ministry, which oversees the foundation, notified its decision to suspend Cho from duties until a disciplinary action against him is finalized, foundation officials said.

During this period, Lee Joo-tae, the foundation's secretary-general, will serve as acting president. (Yonhap)