KCSC Expands 'Dispute Mediation Division'… "False Information Not Subject to Review"

As the revised Information and Communications Network Act, aimed at addressing online disinformation, went into effect on July 7, a new reporting and processing system for major online platforms has officially launched. In response, the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) has expanded its existing defamation dispute mediation division into a nine-member body.

The KCSC also clarified that false information itself is not subject to administrative review, stating that only illegal information falls under its jurisdiction.

Concerns have been raised that because each platform operates under different policies and judgment criteria, similar posts could be subject to inconsistent actions.

There are also fears that if service providers excessively delete posts out of concern for legal risks, it could lead to controversies regarding the infringement of freedom of expression.

The possibility cannot be ruled out that reports of false information could be misused as a tool for political or ideological conflict, or that issues such as so-called reporting bombs, where specific posts are targeted for mass reporting, could arise.

However, issues concerning the neutrality of platforms' judgment criteria and verification systems, as well as the protection of freedom of expression, are expected to remain points of contention during actual operations.

Ultimately, experts suggest that the success of the new system will depend on how transparently and fairly platforms manage their post-processing standards and appeal procedures, and how well they maintain a balance between curbing false information and guaranteeing freedom of expression.
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.