POSCO removed the head of Pohang Steelworks, Lee Dong-ryeol, from his post on Friday following the facility's second gas leak in 15 days.

Earlier on Thursday, two contracted cleaners and a POSCO employee were found unresponsive after inhaling gas while removing sludge outside a rolling mill.

The incident came just 15 days after one worker was killed and three others suffered burns at the same plant due to exposure to chemicals that leaked from damaged pipes.

Kim Hee-geun, the company's CEO, will concurrently take on Lee's role. Kim will spearhead efforts to get to the bottom of the series of gas leaks and similar accidents. 

POSCO appears to be working to raise awareness about workplace safety and identify those responsible for the recent incidents, as the government repeatedly emphasizes workplace safety.