A Korean diplomat in Auckland has been recalled to Seoul and faces disciplinary action over allegations he harrassed female staff and fought with a fellow official - allegations he had denied.
The Korean Times has reported Consul General Lee Dae-hee was suspended from his duties in Korea's Auckland consulate and recalled to Seoul last month. He was due to have a disciplinary meeting this week.
The newspaper said he was accused of inappropriately touching female Consulate staff at an Auckland karaoke bar and a woman had also complained to the Korean Embassy in Wellington - allegations Mr Lee had denied. He was also accused of getting in a physical scuffle with a fellow Korean official.
The Embassy did not respond to the Herald's request for information yesterday, including the outcome of a disciplinary hearing scheduled for Tuesday.
An unnamed official for Korea's Foreign Affairs Ministry told the Times that an allegation of sexual harrassment was lodged but was subsequently withdrawn by female staff. However, an internal investigation had discovered 'behavioural problems' which had resulted in Mr Lee being suspended and returned to Seoul for a disciplinary meeting..
