Labor Department Launches Special Inspection at Hospital Following Nurse's Death

In response to the death of a nurse in her twenties who had reported workplace harassment, labor authorities have initiated a special inspection of the hospital involved. This incident has prompted a broader examination of the so-called 'Taewoom' culture within hospitals and a commitment to improve organizational culture.

The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced on July 1 that it would begin labor inspections at the hospital located in Gwangju, Gyeonggi Province.

According to previous media reports, the nurse tragically took her own life last month after enduring repeated verbal abuse and unfair treatment from senior nurses. She had reported the harassment to labor authorities after leaving the hospital in April of last year, and a labor committee acknowledged some of the harassment claims, leading to corrective measures for the hospital.

The Gyeonggi Regional Employment and Labor Office and the Seongnam branch plan to investigate not only the allegations of harassment against the deceased nurse but also any additional victims among current employees. They will also review compliance with labor laws regarding organizational culture and working hours, and take strict action if any violations are found.

The Ministry views this incident as indicative of a broader issue beyond an individual hospital, highlighting the persistent 'Taewoom' culture affecting nurses in the medical field. They plan to conduct additional inspections at small and medium-sized hospitals where reports of workplace harassment are frequent or anonymous tips have been received, while also providing support for improving hospital organizational culture.

To enhance hospital organizational culture, the Ministry plans to expand participation in the 'Workplace Innovation Coexistence Consulting' program nationwide. This program will offer tailored consulting to hospitals, including organizational culture assessments, the establishment of worker protection systems, and the development of workplace harassment prevention programs.

Additionally, the Ministry will review potential improvements to regulations based on the ongoing survey of workplace harassment prevention and response measures at small and medium-sized hospitals, which is being conducted from October 10 to October 9.

Minister of Employment and Labor Kim Young-hoon expressed deep condolences for the nurse's tragic death, stating, "It is heartbreaking to see that oppressive workplace harassment among nurses still occurs in hospitals."

He added, "We will take strict action regarding this matter and actively promote consulting, education, and awareness to fundamentally improve organizational culture and perceptions."