The National Fire Agency announced that it will operate the anonymous reporting system 'K-Whistle' for one month, through July 31, for all firefighters nationwide to improve unfair practices within the organization.

The operation of this anonymous reporting system is a measure designed to allow members to safely report unfair practices and inhumane treatment that are difficult to uncover in the field.

To strictly guarantee the anonymity of whistleblowers, the National Fire Agency plans to manage the entire process, from report reception to the notification of processing results, by utilizing the independent servers and security technology of an external specialized company.

All firefighters across the country are eligible to submit reports.

Reports can be made via a PC website, a dedicated smartphone app, or QR codes, allowing anyone to use the service conveniently without restrictions on time or location.

Key types of reports include < demands for private favors (such as personal errands or requests for unfair convenience), < unreasonable drinking culture (forced drinking), and < inhumane treatment (such as disparaging remarks about appearance or body, and verbal abuse).

K-Whistle is operated in a way that prevents the tracking of the reporter's IP address and does not generate access log files, ensuring that the identity of the reporter cannot be identified.

Furthermore, it is managed through an independent server so that internal administrators or inspection officials cannot trace the identity of the reporter.

Even after a report is filed, the reporter and the inspection official can engage in two-way communication through a channel within the system to request additional materials, provide answers, and check the processing results while maintaining anonymity.

The National Fire Agency explained that there may be limitations in launching an investigation if the subject is not specified, if specific facts are not stated, or if the report is limited to speculation or vague allegations.

Accordingly, the agency requested that when submitting a report, individuals should clearly state the time, location, involved parties, and specific actions based on the five Ws and one H, and submit supporting materials if available.

The National Fire Agency plans to closely examine wrong practices within the organization through this intensive reporting period and take strict measures according to principles for any confirmed issues.

Choi Yong-cheong, Acting Commissioner of the National Fire Agency, stated, "We will do our best to correct unfair practices and establish an organizational culture that members can trust through this intensive reporting period."

Previously, the National Fire Agency faced a large-scale disciplinary crisis following the resignation of its head due to misconduct allegations, as well as reports of workplace bullying such as forced drinking leading to a death, and suspicions of covering up internal inspections.

(Photo: Yonhap News)