KCSC to Seek Solutions for Hate Speech Spreading on Social Media and Online Communities

The Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) announced that it will hold a forum at the Broadcasting Center in Mok-dong, Seoul, tomorrow (June 18) to discuss the side effects of the spread of online hate speech and potential countermeasures, as discussions on regulating such content gain momentum.

The forum, titled "How to Respond to Online Hate Speech," was organized to diagnose the problems of hate speech spreading primarily through online communities and social media, and to explore ways to improve relevant systems.

Following opening remarks by KCSC Chairperson Ko Gwang-heon and a congratulatory speech by Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Hyun, the forum will feature a keynote presentation by Hong Sung-soo, a professor at Sookmyung Women's University's College of Law. Professor Hong will explain the concept of hate speech, current trends in domestic and international discussions, and the status of relevant laws and systems.

In the presentation materials released in advance, Professor Hong assessed that while social awareness regarding hate and discrimination has increased, policy and legislative responses remain insufficient.

He also pointed out that hate speech should not be left unchecked, as it can infringe upon the right to substantive equality and weaken the foundation for participation by members of society.

However, he noted that there are limitations to approaches centered solely on criminal punishment or reliance on social self-regulation, suggesting a dual strategy that combines both legal and non-legal responses.

Professor Hong evaluated that while the introduction of prohibition clauses related to hate speech in the Information and Communications Network Act, scheduled to take effect in July, is significant, there is a need for improvements regarding the ambiguity of the definition and the methods of regulation.

In the subsequent panel discussion, participants including Kim Min-ho, Chairman of the Board of the Korea Internet Self-governance Organization (KISO); Park A-ran, a professor at Korea University; Lee Seung-hyun, a visiting professor at Yonsei University; Jung Seul-ah, a team leader at Korea Women's Link; Choi Jin-eung, a legislative researcher at the National Assembly; and Choi Hang-sub, a professor at Kookmin University, will discuss ways to balance hate speech regulation with freedom of expression.

The KCSC stated, "We hope this forum will serve as an opportunity to broaden social consensus on the issue of online hate speech and establish reasonable countermeasures to foster a healthy internet culture," adding, "Based on expert opinions, we will work to prepare reliable deliberation standards and plans for legal and institutional improvements."

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