Chaebol update policies on sexual harassment

Leading conglomerates are making sure they have full guidelines in place to deal with sexual assault and harassment at their work sites after a series of revelations at leading companies, corporate sources said Tuesday.

Male workers at Hanssem and Hyundai Card have been accused of sexual assault against entry-level female employees, and the companies are being criticized for mishandling the cases at the early stages. The accusers say they were forced to remain silent or reverse their testimony by pressure from company management.

In Hanssem’s case, a signature drive demanding due punishment is underway on the website of the presidential office.

Samsung Electronics has an online and offline “SOS channel” through which its employees can report sexual or verbal abuse as well as misbehavior related to drinking. The accuser can choose to demand private settlement at the official level. The company declared zero tolerance for sexual harassment in 2015.

Hyundai Motor’s guideline is to launch an investigation immediately after a complaint is filed. If the crime is confirmed, the company metes out the highest level of punishment while extending protection to the victim.

SK Innovation said it has consultation centers to listen to victims of sexual harassment. An investigation begins on the day that a complaint is received, with a female attorney present.

SK Hynix has a banner on its intranet for its employees to report sexual misconduct.

LG Group said it has teams at each of its affiliates to promptly handle sexual abuses under the principle of non-tolerance.

YONHAP