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| A screen capture of an inappropriate message allegedly sent by a Gimhae city official |
The Gimhae city government will investigate an employee who allegedly sent inappropriate messages to a female resident under self-quarantine amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
"Depending on the findings, the city government will decide on a sanction against him," a city government official said Tuesday, adding that the employee was in a state of shock and had taken a short vacation.
The resident had returned from New Zealand and self-quarantined between April 11 and 25, and the city employee was assigned to monitor her ― all arrivals must go into self-quarantine and local government officials near the self-quarantine locations monitor their whereabouts.
According to news reports, the two met on April 13 for the first time when he brought her some personal hygiene products, and soon after she began receiving seemingly personal messages.
One message allegedly said, "Dear, send me your picture that can show you're at home. You don't have to show your face. I was told to make a surprise visit to you and I don't want to follow the instruction. And don't tell this to anyone. This is a secret." In another message, he allegedly wrote, "You don't answer the phone. Then, your angel has to come to check on you. Please reply."
Speaking to a local newspaper, the female resident said he also sent unnecessary videos including of his family members.
"I didn't want to tell him directly that I didn't like the messages, but they were very unpleasant," she said.
On the last day of quarantine, he allegedly wrote, "Thank you for your cooperation. As of midnight tonight, you are free. Enjoy your freedom. If you earn enough money, please buy me a drink. I am sending the last video file. I hope you enjoy it and good luck to you."
The city employee reportedly explained he only added a personal touch in his messages because he wanted her to feel comfortable during lockdown. As far as sending video files, he explained it was his hobby and there was nothing inappropriate.
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