The new president of the public broadcaster Korean Broadcasting System (KBS) has taken office.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony Tuesday, Kim In-kyu said he will protect KBS from political and corporate interests and reflect the philosophy and values of public broadcasting in managing the company.

Also, he said he will seek to resolve conflicts within the organization.

Kim promised to raise television license fees to a realistic level and set up a free digital TV platform.

The ceremony was delayed for hours due to protests by union workers.

The union opposes Kim’s appointment because he was a media advisor to President Lee Myung-bak during his 2007 presidential campaign.