▲ In this file photo, Kim Hyoung-suk, chief of the Independence Hall of Korea, heads to a hearing at the veterans ministry in the central city of Sejong on Feb. 3, 2026, held to listen to his explanation about allegations of financial misconduct and other irregularities. (Yonhap)

museum director-dismissal

Lee approves dismissal of Independence Hall chief

SEOUL, Feb. 19 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday approved the dismissal of the chief of the Independence Hall of Korea, who has been accused of financial misconduct and other irregularities, presidential officials said.

Kim Hyoung-suk was removed from the post after the veterans ministry held a hearing on the chief of the history museum on Feb. 3 over allegations of using the state-run organization for private purposes and engaging in irregularities, and sought for Lee's approval.

The museum's board approved a motion requesting Kim's dismissal last month.

A special audit by the veterans ministry had listed 14 irregularities committed by Kim, including being involved in rent-free leasing of basic assets, receiving money and soliciting donations.

Kim filed an appeal against the audit results, claiming the audit was unfairly conducted to remove him, but it was rejected.

Kim, who was appointed under former President Yoon Suk Yeol in 2024, has faced repeated calls to step down from his post by the ruling Democratic Party over his conservative historical views of modern Korean history.

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