Chairman Lee Dong-gwan: South Korea’s Media Normalization Efforts Continue

South Korea’s Efforts for Media Normalization Continue, Says Chairman Lee Dong-gwan

Lee Dong-gwan, the Chairman of the Korea Communications Commission, dismissed rumors of his resignation, emphasizing his commitment to the ongoing normalization of the media. In a recent interview with the press, he confidently stated that even if he were to step down, his successor would ensure the continuity of media normalization. Chairman Lee reiterated that the train towards media normalization will keep moving forward.

Defending His Position and Responding to Criticism

Addressing speculation about his voluntary resignation, Chairman Lee stated that such a scenario is unlikely. Furthermore, he refuted the opposition’s claim that the government and ruling party sacrificed budget deliberations to protect his position, calling it a baseless distortion. He argued that it was actually the opposition party that took advantage of the budget bill and other livelihood-related legislation to initiate his impeachment.

Remarks on Controversy Surrounding KBS President Appointment

Chairman Lee also commented on the controversy surrounding the appointment of Park Min as the president of KBS. He clarified that his intention was not to interfere with the government but to demand fair reporting. He criticized those who had spread fake news during the election period and now attempted to create a reverse political narrative. Chairman Lee highlighted that the relative silence of KBS after Park’s appointment was due to the sense of crisis felt by its members. He believed that the path to media normalization lies in a “1 public, multiple private broadcasting system.”

Criticism of Fake News and its Impact on Elections

Responding to claims that a strong crackdown on fake news undermines press freedom, Lee Dong-gwan’s lawyer criticized the Moon Jae-in administration for using fake news enforcement as a pretext to suppress conservative YouTubers for five years. He argued that their actions could be interpreted as an attempt to create a reverse political narrative in preparation for the upcoming elections. The lawyer pointed out cases from the previous election, such as the false interview with Kim Man-bae, “ecological fake news,” and fake news about folding screens, which had an impact. The lawyer concluded that after the crackdown on fake news, absurd and baseless fake news, such as extravagant gatherings in Cheongdam-dong, significantly decreased.

Insights into the Media Normalization, Fake News, and Role of the Korea Communications Commission

Amidst the rapidly changing news cycle, Chairman Lee Dong-gwan’s statements provide insights into the ongoing discussions surrounding media normalization, fake news, and the role of the Korea Communications Commission. His remarks defend his position, respond to criticism, and shed light on the path towards media normalization and the impact of fake news on elections.