NongHyup chairman Kang Ho-dong issued a public apology and unveiled a reform plan after an interim special audit by the agriculture ministry cited alleged wrongdoing and weak internal controls. The plan includes giving up chairmanships at two affiliated bodies, delegating management to professional executives and creating a reform panel led by an outside expert. Critics from farmer groups and politicians called for Kang to resign as chairman. The government said it would tighten oversight and consider follow-up legislation.

NongHyup chairman Kang Hodong said on Jan. 13 he would seek to restore public trust after the interim results of a special audit by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. He issued a public apology and announced plans to overhaul the organisation and improve systems. Kang said he would resign from posts he held concurrently by convention. Key executives said they would voluntarily step down. NongHyup will form a reform committee and revise rules, including overseas lodging limits.