Tongyeong journalists file police complaint over alleged verbal abuse

Journalists from Hansan Shinmun have filed a police complaint following an incident at the Tongyeong City Council on October 14. The news organization, supported by its labor union and the Tongyeong Journalists Association, alleges that a civic group member and another internet news reporter subjected female journalists to verbal abuse, threats, and sexist insults during a plenary session.

According to the complainants, the individuals used derogatory language, questioned the journalists' credentials, and made ageist and sexist remarks. The Hansan Shinmun staff reported feeling significant mental distress due to the aggressive behavior. They are demanding a thorough police investigation, apologies from the involved parties, and the implementation of safety measures by the City Council to prevent recurrence.

Conversely, the accused parties have denied the allegations of unprovoked abuse. One individual claimed the confrontation began after they requested the journalists maintain proper decorum in a public space, while another reporter stated their comments were a response to the situation. The Tongyeong Journalists Association has issued a statement condemning the incident as an attack on press freedom.