Kim Seung-ryong, the chief of the Fire Agency, has been dismissed just three months after taking office amid allegations of inappropriate overseas travel.
According to Yonhap News on June 12, President Lee Jae-myung processed Kim's resignation request that day. The Blue House had initiated an investigation into the allegations against Kim three weeks prior.
While the Blue House did not disclose specific reasons for the dismissal, reports indicate that Kim faced accusations of misusing emergency vehicles for personal purposes and taking questionable overseas trips.
However, the Fire Agency stated that all allegations against Kim had been clarified. A spokesperson noted, "If there had been insufficient clarification, we would have pursued disciplinary action rather than accepting a resignation. He applied for resignation due to personal reasons."
As a result, Choi Yong-cheol, the acting head of the Gyeonggi Fire and Disaster Headquarters, has been appointed as the new deputy chief of the Fire Agency. Choi, who was promoted from fire inspector to fire chief, will begin his duties on June 15.
Choi, originally from Boeun County in Chungbuk, joined the fire service in 1999 as part of the 10th class of fire officer candidates. He has held various positions, including head of the Sejong Fire Headquarters and the Jeonnam Fire Headquarters, and is recognized for his effective leadership and operational capabilities.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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