South Korea Cracks Down on Online Hate Speech: Urgent Action Announced

URGENT UPDATE: South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has ordered police to intensify efforts against online hate speech, declaring that such behavior “crosses the boundary of freedom of expression.” This announcement comes amid growing anti-foreigner sentiment, particularly targeting Chinese nationals, as the nation grapples with a surge in demographic shifts.

Just this week, Lee emphasized the need for immediate action during a Cabinet meeting, stating that hate speech and disinformation on social media are “rampant.” He described the circulation of false information that promotes racial hatred as a direct threat to democracy and the daily lives of citizens, insisting it “must be regarded as a crime.”

The urgency of this crackdown is underscored by the record number of foreigners residing in South Korea, which hit 2.58 million last year—approximately 5 percent of the population. This demographic change has sparked increased protests and anxieties across the country, historically known for its homogeneity.

During the meeting, Lee stated, “Acts such as distorting or manipulating facts, spreading racial hatred or discrimination are unacceptable.” He called on the police to play a “particularly important role” in combating these issues. Notably, Lee also announced that all senior officials, including those from the National Human Rights Commission, would be held to the same standards regarding hate speech accountability.

“Far-right forces in Korea are spreading disinformation about China and organizing anti-China protests, which not only damage the friendship between our two countries but also tarnish Korea’s national image,”

said Dai Bing, the Chinese ambassador to South Korea, during a forum in Seoul on Tuesday.

In a significant move, Lee endorsed a proposal allowing for the immediate dismissal of civil servants found guilty of engaging in hate speech. This policy is expected to be implemented swiftly, as reported by the Korea Times.

Amid these developments, South Korea remains one of the few countries in the OECD without comprehensive anti-discrimination laws. Lee has voiced support for a parliamentary debate on introducing such legislation, modeled after frameworks in Japan and Europe. He also advocated for abolishing clauses in the criminal defamation law that penalize factual statements, arguing that these disputes should be resolved in civil court.

As tensions continue to rise, all eyes are on the South Korean government’s next steps in fostering a more inclusive society. The impact of these new measures will be closely monitored as citizens and officials alike navigate the evolving landscape of freedom of expression and hate speech.

Stay tuned for further updates as South Korea takes decisive action against online hate speech and seeks to reshape its social narrative.