Seoul: 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.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim Hyoung-suk was removed from his position following a hearing by the veterans ministry on February 3. The hearing addressed allegations that Kim used the state-run organization for private purposes and engaged in various irregularities, leading to a request for President Lee's approval for his dismissal.

The museum's board had already approved a motion requesting Kim's dismissal last month. A special audit conducted by the veterans ministry uncovered 14 irregularities attributed to Kim. These included involvement in rent-free leasing of basic assets, receiving money, and soliciting donations improperly.

Kim challenged the audit results, arguing that the audit was biased and aimed at removing him from his position. However, his appeal was rejected. Kim, who was appointed under former President Yoon Suk Yeol in 2024, has faced ongoing demands from the ruling Democratic Party to resign due to his conservative views on modern Korean history.