MBC Transitions from Freelance to Full-Time ‘Meteorological Experts’ following On-Air Personality’s Death
Seoul,South Korea – Following the passing of weather caster Go Oyogana,MBC has announced the abolishment of its freelance weather caster system and the introduction of a new,full-time “Meteorological Expert” role. The network expressed condolences to Oyogana’s family on the occasion of her first cycle, stating, “MBC prays for the deceased’s blessings and raises a boring comfort to the bereaved family.”
The shift aims to deliver more extensive weather and climate information to viewers, with the new experts responsible for not only on-air presentation but also reporting, field work, and content creation. This move comes amid scrutiny surrounding workplace conditions at MBC, including an ongoing examination into a workplace harassment case and the circumstances surrounding Oyogana’s death.
MBC conducted a fact-finding committee investigation into the cause of Oyogana’s death, but initially only reported findings to the Broadcasting Culture Promotion Association. The network has committed to publicly disclosing the results of the investigation if consent is reached in a related civil lawsuit.
Recruitment for the “Meteorological Expert” positions will begin through a general public application process slated for late 2023 or early 2024. MBC plans to release detailed recruitment schedules and methods to ensure fairness. Qualified applicants include those with degrees in weather, climate, or environmental science, relevant certifications, or a minimum of five years of experience in the field – encompassing current freelance weather casters.