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Mediator Code of Ethics

The seven principles that members of the Korea Mediation Institute (KMI) observe when acting as mediators. The Code is informed by the Institute's articles of association and international dispute-resolution standards (including the IMI Code of Conduct).

안내 — 운영위원회 의결 전 초안입니다. 정식 의결 후 본 페이지가 갱신됩니다.

Impartiality

Mediators treat every party even-handedly and conduct the process from a neutral stance that favours no side. They preserve the balance of the procedure without yielding to outside influence.

Confidentiality

Information learned through the mediation is not disclosed to outsiders, except with party consent or as required by law. Confidentiality is the foundational principle that sustains trust in mediation.

Self-determination

Respect for Self-Determination

Mediators help parties choose the resolution themselves. Parties decide the content, timing, and form of any agreement; the mediator does not coerce a decision.

Conflict of Interest

Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest

Mediators do not accept cases in which personal or professional relationships could impair independence or impartiality. Where a conflict is suspected, they disclose it to the parties promptly and decide whether to withdraw.

Competence

Competence and Expertise

Mediators continually develop the knowledge and skills required for the process. They decline cases that fall outside their expertise, or refer the parties to a more suitable mediator.

Responsible Practice

Mediators fully explain the conduct of the process, the scope of information disclosure, and the drafting of any settlement, balancing procedural efficiency with the protection of party rights.

Integrity of the Profession

By observing this Code, mediators safeguard social trust in the Institute and the profession as a whole. The Institute reviews suspected violations through the Ethics Committee and, where necessary, takes action affecting membership.

Reporting a Violation

Suspected violations of the Code may be reported to the Institute's Ethics Committee, anonymously or by name. The Committee reviews each matter and notifies the outcome.

This Code is promulgated to members upon adoption by the board of directors and is reviewed and revised on a regular basis.