Late meteorologist Oh Yoanna receives honorary MBC employee ID a year after death: Can her case prevent another tragedy?

To ensure there will never be a “second Oh Yoanna.” A year after his passing, the late MBC meteorologist Oh you he posthumously received an honorary MBC employee badge, marking a significant step in reconciliation between his grieving family and the television company.

On October 15, MBC held a joint press conference at Sangam headquarters in Seoul Oh youhis family. MBC president Ahn Hyung Joon attended the event, formally apologizing for the workplace bullying that contributed to his death and presenting the honorary identity card to the defunct broadcaster. The ceremony concluded with the signing of a mutual agreement and an emotional embrace between the MBC president and Oh’s mother.

President Ahn expressed deep regret, saying: “We mourn the loss of Oh Yoanna, who passed away at such a young age. I offer my sincere condolences and apologies to her mother and family who have endured unimaginable pain. Today’s settlement symbolizes MBC’s renewed commitment to ensuring such tragedies never happen again.”

He also detailed internal reforms: “In April, we established the Office for Coexistence and Cooperation to address concerns and conflicts involving freelancers and all MBC staff. We are conducting regular training to prevent harassment and unfair treatment in the workplace. As a responsible public broadcaster, we are committed to creating a respectful, inclusive and safe working environment.”

Oh you dies on September 15, 2024, aged just 28. Known for her beauty and charm, she had also appeared on tvN Take the block quizgaining popularity as a rising meteorologist. His sudden death shocked the public and, three months later, the discovery of a 17-page will revealed signs of workplace bullying.

Following an investigation, the Ministry of Employment and Labor confirmed this in May 2025 “harassment occurred in the workplace” within the MBC. However, due to the freelance nature of meteorologists’ contracts, she was not legally recognized as an “employee” under Korean labor laws, highlighting a devastating loophole that denied her official protection.

After months of silence, MBC apologized and promised comprehensive organizational reform. The company said it has already submitted an improvement plan to the ministry and has taken concrete actions to ensure accountability and fair treatment for both freelancers and contract workers.

While reconciliation between MBC and the family has been achieved, the legal battle continues. Oh you‘s family has filed a lawsuit for ₩510 million (approximately USD 370,000) in damages against a colleague accused of harassment. The Seoul Central District Court held another hearing on October 14, showing that although the company has acknowledged responsibility, the fight for justice against the individual perpetrator remains ongoing.

Even after his passing, Oh you‘s story continues to serve as a painful reminder of the need for workplace reform. Her family’s determination ensures that her death will not be in vain and that there will never be another “Oh Yoanna” in the Korean broadcasting industry.

Sources: Daum

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