Former 'Chungju Man' Kim Sun-tae Explains His Resignation and New YouTube Venture

Former 'Chungju Man' Kim Sun-tae has opened up about the reasons behind his resignation.

On the 3rd, Kim Sun-tae's YouTube channel released its first video titled 'This is Kim Sun-tae.'

In the video, Kim Sun-tae greeted viewers, saying, "Hello, this is Kim Sun-tae. I'm no longer 'Chungju Man.'" He visited a park and pondered whether he was allowed on the grass, commenting, "This civil servant syndrome, always worrying about getting scolded, is a problem. I still haven't shaken it off."

Kim candidly addressed the aftermath of submitting his resignation, clarifying, "It seemed like I was being forced out, but that wasn't the case at all." He expressed his distress over the criticism directed at Chungju's civil servants, saying, "It pained me to see them being criticized. While it may have been out of concern, it was still hurtful."

He emphasized, "It's not about civil servants or public positions; jealousy and gossip exist everywhere. I've also criticized others, so it's understandable. I was never ostracized."

Reflecting on his time as 'Chungju Man,' Kim stated, "The city hall staff were very supportive. My role was unprecedented, and there were bound to be mismatches with the organization. But most understood and helped me."

Regarding his decision to resign, Kim explained, "I felt I had shown enough. We did our best in promotion. Continuing YouTube wouldn't have reached 2 or 3 million subscribers. The original goal was 1 million, and I felt we fulfilled our duty."

Kim acknowledged receiving numerous offers, stating, "There were many generous offers, both direct and indirect. Ultimately, I wanted more freedom, which led me to start YouTube. It's the only thing I can do."

As he embarks on his new journey as a YouTuber, Kim revealed, "The main reason for leaving was to earn more money. While it's a new challenge, it's ultimately about seeking better conditions. Contrary to rumors, I'm not poor. I've been a dual-income household for 10 years and earned more than other civil servants through external activities. But I felt it was now or never."

At 40, Kim expressed his aspirations, "I'm a 'young forty.' I wanted to explore my potential before getting older. Whether I succeed or fail, I have no regrets, so I'm willing to take the risk."

Meanwhile, Kim's new YouTube channel 'Kim Sun-tae' gained over 350,000 subscribers in just one day. Previously, there were rumors of a potential position at the Blue House, but it did not materialize. Kim joined as a 9th-grade civil servant in 2016, gained attention through Chungju's official YouTube channel ChungTV, and was promoted to 6th grade within three years before recently resigning.

By Eun Jung Kim, TenAsia Reporter eun@tenasia.co.kr