People Power Party Launches Media Freedom Committee, Criticizes Lee Jae-myung Government's Media Control

The People Power Party (PPP) has launched a Special Committee on Media Freedom to review the government's media policies and initiate activities to guarantee freedom of expression. The committee plans to examine the current administration's media-related policies.

Kim Jang-gyeom, Chairman of the Special Committee on Media Freedom, asserted that the Democratic Party's proposed revisions to the Broadcasting Act are an attempt to hand over public broadcasters to a specific media union. He pointed out serious problems with the content and process of the bill, expressing concerns that it could undermine the fairness and independence of the press.

Song Eon-seok, floor leader of the People Power Party, criticized the practice of senior officials in the Lee Jae-myung government appearing on pro-government YouTube channels to conduct government briefings. He argued that this is an attempt to selectively provide information that suits the government's tastes and undermines media diversity.

Rep. Choi Hyung-du mentioned the fact that the Washington Post, a leading American newspaper, published a critical editorial regarding South Korea's hate speech laws. He emphasized the Washington Post's concern that South Korea's press freedom could be curtailed, arguing that international concerns are growing over the government's media-related policies.

Future Plans of the Special Committee on Media Freedom

The People Power Party's Special Committee on Media Freedom stated that it will meticulously review the Lee Jae-myung government's media policies and devote all its efforts to protecting freedom of the press through active responses to cases of infringement. The committee added that it will consider all possible measures, including legal action if necessary.