By Han Eun-jung
Staff Reporter
About 20 labor union members held a banner that read "Parachuter Jung Yun-joo Has No Right to Enter KBS". Jung entered the building through the backdoor.
In place of an inaugural ceremony, Jung broadcast a message conveying his intention to keep KBS independent of political parties.
"I will concentrate on providing public services through partial and objective reporting and high-quality programs", he said.
"I will see to it that the (internal) structure is changed to one that is more creative and effective and will demonstrate my capability to collectivize talent".
President Roh Moo-hyun's Nov. 24 appointment of Jung for a second term as KBS president elicited criticism from the main opposition Grand National Party (GNP), KBS employees and civic groups.
Opposing groups argued that Roh's preference for Jung, regarded as a progressive figure and pro-government, was made to create a media environment favorable to the governing party ahead of the 2007 presidential race.
Conflict between labor and management intensified after June. Jung stepped down on June 30, after completing a full three-year term. The labor union criticized Jung for his poor management skills. KBS had also been criticized for overpaying management while the company was in the red.
Amid the objections, President Roh last week approved the recommendation made by KBS board of governors that Jung resume his post.
"Who would recognize a conscienceless person that would leave the main gates and enter the building through the backdoor to be the head of state-run KBS?" Jin Jong-chul, president of the KBS labor union, said.
"The Roh Moo-hyun administration, in placing Jung Yun-joo at the head of a procession, is a Machiavellian move preparing for the upcoming presidential race and will not be excused", he said.
|
English 
US$5 off (order min. US$5)
