Proposed “Song Mino Prevention Law” on January 6th: Aiming for Stable Management Amid Service Discipline Controversies

Proposal for the “Song Mino Prevention Law”Introduced by National Assembly Member

In a recent exclusive by the Seoul Shinmun, reported on January 5th, Yoo Yong-won, a member of the National Defense Committee belonging to the People Power Party, is set to introduce the “Song Mino Prevention Law” on January 6th. This legislation aims to address critical issues within the public service sector.

Key Features of the Proposed Amendment

The proposed law will require the Military Manpower Administration (MMA) to develop and manage an electronic attendance management system specifically for public service personnel. This system will keep track of their attendance, leave, and absences in real-time, aiming to streamline operations and enhance accountability.

Background on the Song Mino Incident

Song Mino, who concluded his public service on December 23rd of the previous year, has faced allegations surrounding his incomplete duties during his service. This controversy has underscored the deficiencies of the existing manual tracking system, which relies heavily on human oversight.

Legislative Intent and Technology Integration

Rep. Yoo emphasized, in a telephone interview with the Seoul Shinmun, that leveraging advancements in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is essential for modernizing public service management. He stated, “It is imperative to implement a comprehensive electronic system for documenting public service personnel attendance, particularly in light of recent disciplinary controversies stemming from misconduct.”

Rising Data Trends in Public Service Misconduct

Recent data from the Military Manpower Administration has revealed a troubling trend: cases of unauthorized lateness increased from 1,019 in 2020 to 1,178 in 2023, despite a dip to 950 in 2021. In the first eleven months of last year alone, there were 841 reported cases of unauthorized tardiness. Similarly, incidents of desertion, which encompasses absences without leave, rose significantly from 853 cases in 2020 to 1,087 in 2023.

The ongoing misconduct issues have been attributed, in part, to insufficient supervisory personnel. As of November of last year, only 114 supervision officers from the MMA were tasked with overseeing approximately 46,490 public service personnel, resulting in an overwhelming ratio of about 407 personnel per supervisor.

Future Developments and Police Investigation

In response to these challenges, the Military Manpower Administration has announced plans to roll out an electronic attendance management system, with an expected implementation timeline set for 2027. Furthermore, due to reported breaches of the Military Service Act, the agency has requested a police inquiry into Song Mino’s alleged service infractions.

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