Korea joins Freedom Online Coalition

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By Jung Min-ho

Korea, under President Yoon Suk Yeol's leadership, has officially embraced the Freedom Online Coalition (FOC) as a strategic partner, championing the cause of online freedoms and human rights in its diplomatic endeavors.

In an announcement made last week, the FOC said it welcomed the country as its 38th member.

“As a state party to several international treaties that relate to the FOC's mission, the ROK has demonstrated a commitment to human rights online both at a domestic level and in key international forums and initiatives,” the FOC said in a statement, referring to Korea by an acronym of its official name, the Republic of Korea. “The country has a track record of actively engaging in various forums and human rights bodies, having supported efforts to bring attention to topics concerning human rights violations occurring globally.”

Korea has been in talks with the United States, the current rotational chair, and other members to obtain partnership since early this year, a senior government official revealed in April.

The organization was launched in 2011 to advance internet freedom, mainly through shaping international norms. Its members are mostly EU countries as well as nations of the Asia-Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Mongolia and the Maldives.

Korea aims to become an “active member” in a joint effort to promote freedom of speech and connectivity, Foreign Minister Park Jin said.

“Given the rapid development of digital technology and its profound impact on our everyday lives, the international community must stay agile in harnessing its positive potential while addressing its risks,” Park said.

“The Freedom Online Coalition has been playing an important role in steering international efforts towards this goal. The Republic of Korea is pleased to join the coalition to support internet freedom and protect human rights online.”