Korea in talks with US over 'anti-fake news' law

National Security Adviser Wi Sung‑lac speaks during a press briefing at Cheong Wa Dae in Seoul, Friday. Newsis

Discussion is ongoing between Seoul and Washington over amendments to Korea's Information and Networks Communication Act, as the U.S. has expressed concern over the potential impact it may have on American businesses here, National Security Adviser Wi Sung‑lac said, Friday.

He said Washington’s concerns were partly reflected in the final text but not to the extent it might have hoped.

Speaking to reporters at Cheong Wa Dae, Wi said the U.S. was consulted while the revision was being drafted.

“There have been exchanges of opinions on the Network Act between officials of Korea and the U.S. As far as I know, there are parts where those views have been reflected. Of course the U.S. side would say the reflected parts are not sufficient and they may raise concerns afterward, but we intend to continue talks on the issue,” he said.

The law, amended on Dec 24, 2025, introduces criminal penalties for the distribution of "false" or "manipulated" information online. The government and lawmakers of the ruling Democratic Party of Korea claim the overhaul was necessary to respond to “social harms” in today’s digital environment and to strengthen protections for users.

The U.S. State Department and other groups have been critical of the proposed changes. In a response sent to Korean media outlets, the state department said it had “serious concerns” about the law, warning that it could negatively affect U.S.-based online platforms like Google and Facebook and weaken freedom of expression.

There is now some concern that the U.S. may raise the issue as a fresh example of what it claims are non-tariff barriers to Korea's digital services, along with attempts to impose network usage fees for American content providers and regulate monopolistic online platforms.

Korea’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs defended the law on Thursday, saying it “does not target any specific country or company” and insisting that its purpose is to reduce abuses of digital spaces rather than single out foreign tech firms. The ministry said the government would continue “necessary communication” with Washington.