In a move that has surprised both local government and his legion of online fans, Kim Sun-tae—better known as 'Chungju Man'—has announced his resignation from public service, closing a remarkable chapter in the world of municipal public relations and digital content creation. On February 13, 2026, Kim posted a heartfelt farewell video titled "Last Greeting" on the official YouTube channel of Chungju City, marking the end of his 10-year career as a civil servant and seven years as the creative force behind the city’s digital persona.
Kim’s departure comes as something of a shock to many. According to Chungju City officials, his resignation letter was submitted on February 12 and he immediately began using his remaining annual leave, with plans to officially retire at the end of the month. The city has described the move as "unexpected and sudden," and is now scrambling to find a successor who can maintain the momentum of Chungju’s digital outreach. For now, the city is focused on minimizing operational gaps and supporting Kim as he transitions out of public office.
Kim leaves behind a legacy that is rare for a public servant. Since taking charge of Chungju City’s official YouTube channel, 'ChungTV,' in 2018, he has transformed it from a conventional government outlet into a viral sensation. His distinctive style—marked by unconventional editing, B-grade humor, and a willingness to break the mold—catapulted the channel to nearly one million subscribers, making it a standout among municipal YouTube efforts nationwide. As Chunji Ilbo and Sports Seoul report, Kim’s approach was widely recognized as an innovative case in public sector communications, earning him not only local but national recognition.
In his farewell video, Kim was candid about his feelings, saying, "I was able to achieve a small success thanks to the support of subscribers. I would also like to thank the Chungju citizens who supported me and my colleagues at Chungju City Hall who always showed consideration. The seven years I spent with you have been the happiest time of my life." He ended by asking viewers to "continue to love Chungju City and its channel." This sentiment was echoed in a statement provided to Chunji Ilbo, where Kim said, "Now, after 10 years in public service and seven years as Chungju Man, I am saying goodbye. The support from subscribers, Chungju citizens, and my colleagues was the reason for my success. The past seven years were the happiest of my life."
The reasons behind Kim’s resignation have been the subject of much speculation. In an interview with iMBC Entertainment, Kim addressed the rumors directly: "I haven’t found a new job yet, and nothing is decided. I’m leaving to take on a new challenge, having achieved what I set out to do with YouTube." He was quick to dismiss any connection between his resignation and the recent departure of former Chungju Mayor Jo Gil-hyung, stating, "There is absolutely no connection. I have no interest in political activities." Kim also told Sports Seoul that he has no plans to enter politics and intends to spend some time figuring out what he’s best suited for next.
Kim’s journey is notable for its rapid ascent. After joining the city government, he was promoted to grade 6 in late 2023 after about seven years, a meteoric rise by civil service standards. His fame grew not just online but on national television, with appearances on shows like MBC’s Point of Omniscient Interfere and Radio Star. In one episode, Kim revealed that his net annual salary was about 40 million KRW (roughly $33,000), and that he had received offers from companies willing to double or even triple his pay. "I was offered two or three times my current salary, but I wasn’t swayed. I thought I shone because I was with Chungju," he said on air, according to Xportsnews.
Despite his popularity and the city’s growing online profile, Kim has been open about the challenges of working in the public sector. In previous interviews, he cited financial limitations as a reason many public servants consider leaving. "One reason civil servants dream of quitting is financial," he once said. He also commented on the difficulties faced by lower-ranked colleagues: "It may seem like a lot, but with rising living costs, it’s not enough. The real problem is for junior employees whose salaries are too low compared to inflation." These frank admissions have fueled broader conversations about the sustainability of retaining high-performing public servants in a system where rewards are limited and outside opportunities abound.
Kim’s creative approach to public relations has not been without its critics, but his impact is undeniable. Under his leadership, 'ChungTV' became a trailblazer for other municipalities, and his B-grade, sometimes irreverent style resonated with a younger audience. His videos often went viral, and his persona as 'Chungju Man' became synonymous with the city itself. The subscriber count, which surpassed 970,000 in 2025, is a testament to his success, as is the national recognition he received for both his content and his willingness to challenge bureaucratic norms.
Public reaction to Kim’s resignation has been mixed. Some fans have expressed sadness that he is leaving before reaching the one-million-subscriber milestone, a goal Kim had previously associated with his eventual retirement. Others have praised his decision to move on while at the peak of his influence, with messages like "Leaving while the applause is loudest" and "Wishing you the best in your next adventure." The city, meanwhile, has acknowledged the difficulty of replacing such a unique figure, with officials telling Wolyo News that they were caught off guard by the timing and are now working to ensure a smooth transition for the channel and its audience.
As for Kim’s future, the path remains uncertain. He has indicated that he will take some time to "figure out what I’m best at," and has firmly ruled out any political ambitions. For now, he is on long-term leave, enjoying a well-earned break after years of tireless innovation and public service. Whatever comes next, Kim Sun-tae’s legacy as 'Chungju Man'—the civil servant who brought a city to life online—will be hard to match.