Lawmakers Han Jun-ho and Lee Hun-gi Urge Shift in UHD Policy at Parliamentary Audit

Democratic Party lawmakers Han Jun-ho and Lee Hun-gi, who serve on the National Assembly's Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee, have called for a shift in policies regarding Ultra High Definition (UHD) broadcasting.

During a comprehensive parliamentary audit of the Korea Media and Communications Commission (KMCC) on October 22, the two lawmakers questioned KMCC Chairperson Kim Jong-cheol, pointing out that the transition strategy to UHD broadcasting introduced nine years ago has failed.

Han, who serves as the committee's ranking member from the Democratic Party, told Kim, "I have repeatedly asked the KMCC chairperson," adding, "Please assess the current status of terrestrial UHD, determine what portions can be reclaimed, and reallocate these financial resources."

In response, Kim said, "Discussions are already underway, and we will soon unveil plans regarding areas in broadcasting-related policies, including UHD policy, that require changes."

During the same comprehensive parliamentary audit by the committee on the same day, Democratic Party lawmaker Lee Hun-gi also raised the need for a full review, arguing that policies regarding UHD network infrastructure are placing an increasing burden on broadcasters.

Lee pointed out, "Despite an investment of 2.2 trillion won in UHD, households directly receiving terrestrial signals account for only 1%, and while the mandatory programming quota is set at 50%, the reality is that most broadcasters fail to meet this standard."

He added, "This is a matter that must be completely reexamined alongside AM radio and DMB, yet it continues to drag on," asking Kim, "Why is this being delayed so much?"

 
To this, Kim replied, "Since the KMCC officially went into full operation on April 1, we have been preparing diligently, and I believe we will be able to present our policy direction to the public before the end of the year."

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.