1. Overview of the Case
At an institution located in Seoul, a report was filed alleging that an internal conflict between employees had developed into workplace harassment, heightening tension within the organization. To protect its employees and ensure an objective assessment of the matter, the institution pursued a neutral investigation by external experts rather than an internal one, and commissioned Your Legal Team to provide advice and conduct the investigation.
2. Key Issues and Response
The most important issues in this case were: the application of the criteria for determining workplace harassment, securing fairness and anonymity throughout the investigation process, and minimizing the ripple effects within the organization.
Your Legal Team proceeded with its response as follows.
Initial consultation and investigation design: Through discussions with the commissioning institution, we clearly established the purpose and scope of the investigation.
Conducting the investigation: Through interviews with stakeholders and fact-finding, we approached the substantive truth, focusing on whether harassment had occurred.
Organization based on legal criteria: We systematically analyzed the factors for determining workplace harassment under current statutes and Ministry of Employment and Labor guidelines, and organized the facts on each issue from a legal perspective.
Advice on the institution's response strategy: Throughout the investigation, we provided legal guidance on the measures the institution should take and the procedures going forward.
3. Outcome and Significance
This case is currently in the final stage of investigation, and the commissioning institution plans to continue its internal response procedures based on Your Legal Team's investigation. In particular, by having external experts handle and investigate a sensitive matter that was difficult to process with internal personnel, the spread of conflict was prevented and trust within the organization could be maintained. This advisory work is a good example showing that even public-interest organizations such as social welfare institutions need professional and neutral external investigations for workplace harassment issues. Beyond merely confirming facts, Your Legal Team effectively reduced the institution's risk through a customized investigation tailored to the organization's situation and through legal advice.