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Islands of Korea, Islands of the World “On the island, I’m Ultraman” Q That would be the three and a half years I spent at a township office starting in 2011. R&D Station
Ultraman on the Island
What was the most difficult period for you?

It was the hardest time in my 20-year public service career. The workload was intense,
and I was constantly engaged with residents without much rest.
A Public Official’s Story from the Frontlines of Island Duty
Q
Despite the challenges, were there rewarding moments?

Absolutely—many. When islanders open up and offer genuine words of thanks, all the exhaustion
Q What does it mean to work on an island? seems to melt away. I feel proud that I’ve been able to fill in the administrative gaps and make a

difference here.
Working on an island feels like being on call 24/7. Because of the nature of island life,
many public officials live in government housing near their workplace. That means even Q Why do you think island posts are viewed negatively?
after official hours, we often respond to residents’ needs. People come looking for help
at any time. I sometimes joke, “I’m like Ultraman here.”
When someone gets assigned to an island, people joke, “What did you do wrong?”
It can be especially hard for new recruits who are unfamiliar with the lifestyle.
Q What kind of duties are you responsible for? But islands are places we must care for. We can’t afford to leave them without public services.

Q
Officially, I handle administrative work. But in the summer, I also remove wasp nests, Is it similar for public health officials?
patrol the village, and inspect fire safety facilities. On the island, one person has to wear
many hats. Elderly residents often come with requests, unsure whether it’s something
Yes. Many islands don’t have hospitals or fire stations. Even though public health workers don’t
Vol.03 the local office can even help with. But I can’t just turn them away—I try to assist as best work in shifts, they must respond immediately to emergencies, even in the middle of the night.
as I can.
So, in reality, every profession here comes with its own set of challenges.
Q What lessons have you learned from your time on the island?

As tough as it’s been, I’ve gained a lot. On an island, you have to approach problems
flexibly and see things from various angles. The experience has been invaluable to my overall
growth as a public official.

Q Any final thoughts you’d like to share?

Island duty requires both commitment and sacrifice. But the sense of purpose and the gratitude
you receive make it all worthwhile. I hope to continue doing my part to
serve these communities with dedication.

*Related research: Survey on Working Conditions for Public Officials in Island Areas

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