KBS' public responsibility, role as global platform

Amid the political transition and current global uncertainty, Korean society is once again reflecting on the raison d'être of public broadcasting. At the heart of this reflection stands the Korean Broadcasting System (KBS). Now is the time for KBS to reaffirm its public mission and define a new vision as a global platform in anticipation of Korean reunification.

Unlike commercial broadcasters, public broadcasting does not pursue ratings or profit. Its role is to deliver truth, mediate conflict, and connect people in times of crisis. Sustained by public trust through license fees, KBS is more than a broadcaster — it is a public square for democracy and a channel through which Korea’s voice reaches the world. KBS must not shy away from political turbulence; it must lead society through it.

In May 1990, I took part in the democratization movement within KBS as a journalist at The Hankyoreh. In 2004, I served as an adviser to the Media Focus program, and since September 2024, I have been a member of the KBS Viewers Committee. From both inside and outside the organization, I have witnessed the state broadcaster endure repeated challenges without collapse. At times it stood alone, but it never abandoned the Korean people. These experiences have convinced me that KBS can still be the most trustworthy public platform in our society.

Following the recent presidential election, Korea’s political landscape is shifting rapidly. In this period of transition, KBS must not retreat into passive neutrality — it must stand at the forefront of journalism, guided by independence and ethical commitment. It must go beyond breaking news, providing context and clarity, and serve as a counterbalance in the public discourse. Among all media, KBS holds the greatest potential to transcend political polarization.

Yet KBS's role must not remain confined to domestic matters. As the path toward peace and reunification on the Korean Peninsula depends increasingly on international cooperation, the network must evolve into a global broadcasting platform capable of conveying Korea’s realities and future to the world in real time. This is not just an opportunity — it is a historic calling.

KBS already possesses the networks, technology and capacity for this role. However, realizing this potential requires political independence, stable financing and institutional safeguards. Public trust in KBS must be rooted not in political alignment, but in the recognition that it exists to serve the public good.

The same applies to political leaders: they must support the state broadcaster not because it serves their interests, but because — especially when it challenges them — public broadcasting is a cornerstone of democracy. A strong public broadcaster is the foundation of a strong democracy.

Looking ahead, KBS must become more than a news outlet. It must be the core channel through which Korea communicates its identity and vision to the world. It should be a mirror that reflects its complex society, a compass in times of division, and the voice that carries Korea’s journey toward a new era on the peninsula.

One day, KBS will broadcast the unified voice of a reunited Korea to global audiences. To prepare for that day, we must protect and strengthen KBS — starting now.

Lee Sang-ki is CEO and publisher of AsiaN. He is founding president of the Asia Journalist Association.