President Park Geun-hye dismissed the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries on Thursday after the official drew public criticism for her attitude toward an oil spill in waters off the south coast of Korea.

Critics said a viral picture of Yoon Jin-sook at the accident site in Yeosu exemplified her casual attitude.

She also angered the fishing community by calling GS Caltex the company who spilled the oil as the main victim in the ordeal.

More than three dozen Yeosu residents were treated in the hospital earlier this week for breathing difficulties and nausea after not receiving the appropriate protective gear while helping with clean-up efforts.