In a move that has sent ripples through both the world of public service and online media, Kim Sun-tae—better known to millions as ‘Chungju Man’—has resigned from his post at Chungju City Hall, closing a remarkable chapter as the country’s most influential civil servant YouTuber. Kim’s departure, announced on February 13, 2026, marks the end of a decade-long public career, including seven years as the creative force behind Chungju City’s official YouTube channel, ChungTV.
Kim’s resignation comes at a time of political transition in Chungju. Just weeks earlier, former Mayor Cho Gil-hyung stepped down to pursue the governorship of North Chungcheong Province. The near-simultaneous exits of these two high-profile figures have fueled speculation about their future paths and any possible connections between their decisions. According to Daejeon Ilbo, some local political observers are convinced that Kim’s next move could be joining Cho’s campaign as a digital strategist—a rumor that both men have publicly denied, at least for now.
The official announcement of Kim’s resignation was delivered in a heartfelt farewell video titled “Last Greeting” posted to the Chungju City YouTube channel. In the video, Kim reflected on his journey: “After 10 years in public service, and 7 years as Chungju Man, I’m here to say goodbye. If I achieved any small success, it was thanks to the support of our subscribers. The past seven years with you have been the happiest of my life.” He extended his gratitude to both Chungju citizens and his colleagues at City Hall, underscoring the communal spirit that defined his work.
Kim’s rise to prominence began in 2018, when he was tapped to manage Chungju’s fledgling digital outreach. Under his stewardship, ChungTV exploded in popularity, reaching over 970,000 subscribers—making it the most followed local government YouTube channel in South Korea, outpacing even the one operated by Seoul. Kim’s distinct “B-grade sensibility” and penchant for short, humorous, and highly shareable videos resonated with audiences far beyond Chungju’s borders. According to Newsis, his efforts fundamentally changed how local governments approach public relations, setting a new standard for digital engagement in the public sector.
But Kim’s success was not limited to YouTube metrics. He became a symbol of innovation in public service, earning a promotion to grade 6 at the end of 2023 after just seven years—an unusually rapid ascent. His creative flair also landed him on national television, including appearances on shows like MBC’s ‘Radio Star’ and ‘Hell’s Court’. On ‘Radio Star’, he famously pledged to retire if ChungTV ever surpassed one million subscribers. Clarifying his statement, Kim later explained, “Retirement didn’t mean leaving Chungju, but rather transitioning to another department. I just wanted to land softly in a different role.”
Despite his digital stardom, Kim’s loyalty to Chungju was unwavering. In a previous interview recounted by Imaeil, he revealed he had turned down job offers that would have doubled his salary, saying, “I never considered leaving. My character is Chungju Man. If I left Chungju, I wouldn’t be able to help the city anymore.” He also expressed mixed feelings about his rapid promotion, stating, “It’s a high position now. I don’t know whether to be happy or sad. For those who work quietly, it might feel unfair. But what can I do? I’ll just work harder to fit the role.”
Kim’s sudden resignation caught city officials off-guard. As reported by Newsis, a Chungju City spokesperson admitted, “We were surprised by the sudden resignation. We’re now searching for a suitable successor to manage ChungTV.” The void left by Kim’s departure is significant; many fear that the channel’s unique voice and momentum may be difficult to sustain without its original architect.
Public reaction has been mixed. While some celebrate Kim’s achievements and wish him well, others express concern about the blurring lines between public service and personal branding. As Gokorea noted, “There are worries that a civil servant leaving to support a political campaign is inappropriate, and that the Chungju Man brand could become a private political asset.” Indeed, the timing of his resignation—so close to Mayor Cho’s—has fueled rumors of political collaboration. Some in the local political scene, according to Daejeon Ilbo, believe Kim’s influence among younger voters could be a game-changer for Cho’s gubernatorial bid.
Yet both Kim and Cho have publicly denied any immediate plans to work together. In an interview with Media Taehee, Cho stated, “It’s the first I’ve heard of Kim’s resignation. He’s not working with me.” Cho did, however, reminisce about appointing Kim to the New Media team in 2019, noting, “I told the PR team to let him handle YouTube, but after six months with no progress, I had to push him. I wish he’d stayed until the channel reached one million subscribers.”
For now, Kim insists his focus is on rest and family. City officials and acquaintances have confirmed that he plans to take a break before considering his next steps. In his own words, Kim said, “For the time being, I want to focus on rest and childcare.” Still, the buzz about his next move refuses to die down, with some speculating that he may yet be drawn into the political fray as the June 2026 local elections draw near.
Kim’s story is also a testament to the shifting culture within South Korea’s public sector. In a recent interview, he remarked, “There’s a positive wind of change blowing in public service. Practices that were once unreasonable are becoming more rational.” He even offered advice to aspiring civil servants, emphasizing the importance of focused study in the final months before the exam and suggesting that early preparation is key for success.
As for what comes next, only time will tell. Kim’s departure is both an end and a beginning—a moment of uncertainty for Chungju City, but perhaps the start of a new chapter for one of Korea’s most unconventional public servants. Whether he returns to the public eye or chooses a quieter path, the legacy of Chungju Man will linger, reminding cities everywhere of the power—and pitfalls—of digital innovation in public service.