South Korean Police Mobilized to Combat Hate Speech Online

UPDATE: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has just announced a decisive crackdown on online hate speech, instructing police to act against what he describes as a serious threat to democracy. This directive comes amid rising anti-foreigner sentiment, particularly targeting Chinese nationals, leading up to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Busan last month.

In a Cabinet meeting held on October 24, 2023, Lee emphasized that hate speech and disinformation are “rampant” across social media platforms. He stated, “Acts such as distorting or manipulating facts, spreading racial hatred or discrimination — the circulation of such false information is an act that threatens democracy, and because it threatens the daily lives of our citizens, it must be regarded as a crime.” His remarks underscore the urgency of the issue in a nation where the number of foreigners residing for at least three months reached a record 2.58 million in 2022, making up roughly 5 percent of the population.

The backdrop to this announcement is a wave of protests from conservative groups against foreign nationals, particularly targeting Chinese individuals. These demonstrations have fueled anxieties regarding demographic changes in one of the world’s most homogenous societies.

Lee’s directives include immediate measures for civil servants, allowing for the instantaneous dismissal of any found guilty of engaging in hate speech. He stated that all public officials, including senior figures such as Ahn Chang-ho, head of the National Human Rights Commission, will be held to the same standards concerning hate speech. Ahn has faced backlash for previous remarks deemed anti-LGBTQ+, raising questions about accountability at high levels.

Furthermore, Dai Bing, the Chinese ambassador to South Korea, expressed concerns at a forum in Seoul about the “far-right forces” spreading disinformation and fostering anti-China protests. He warned that such actions not only harm bilateral relations but also damage South Korea’s international image.

As South Korea and Japan remain the only OECD nations without comprehensive anti-discrimination laws, Lee has backed efforts to initiate parliamentary discussions on this pressing issue. He supports the Justice Minister’s proposal for legislation modeled after laws in Japan and Europe, reinforcing the government’s commitment to address hate speech and discrimination effectively.

What happens next is crucial. The push for an anti-discrimination law could reshape the landscape of social justice in South Korea. Observers are keenly watching for developments in this legislative effort, as well as the implications of Lee’s crackdown on hate speech for societal harmony.

Authorities and citizens alike are urged to remain vigilant as these policies unfold, highlighting the importance of unity in a time of rising tension and division. Expect further updates as the situation develops and as South Korea takes significant steps towards addressing these critical societal issues.