Human rights organizations call for 'prudent review' of 'fake news' bill

The offices of the National Human Rights Commission of Korea / Korea Times file

By Lee Hyo-jin

Human rights watchdogs in Korea and abroad have expressed concerns over the controversial “fake news” bill, saying that it could limit the voice of the media and freedom of expression.

The proposed revision to the Act on Press Arbitration intends to increase punitive damages on media outlets that have intentionally produced false information, including punitive compensation of up to five times the present levels for stories that are deemed to be deliberately false or “grossly negligent” in their reporting.

The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRCK) said Friday that the media law revision includes several clauses that could undermine the media's freedom protected by the Constitution, and asked the chairman of the National Assembly to conduct a “prudent review” of the bill.

“Although the revision bill aims to strengthen the responsibility of media outlets, we cannot rule out the possibility that critical media reports or investigative reports on crimes and acts of corruption would also be subject to the punitive damage compensation, which could bring a chilling effect on media activities,” it said through a statement.

Human Rights Watch (HRW), an international non-governmental organization, said Thursday that “the amendment bill of the Press Arbitration Law's vague language and disproportionate damages against media outlets could limit a wide range of expression, including critical news reporting and coverage of unpopular or minority opinions.”

“Unless the consultative committee significantly revises the bill before it reaches the National Assembly, the legislators should reject it outright,” Lina Yoon, a senior researcher at HRW was quoted as saying in the statement.

The HRW, along with three other civil society organizations have sent letters to President Moon Jae-in and National Assembly members, calling for a revision of the bill.

In response, an official at Cheong Wa Dae said Friday, “As freedom of speech and protection of victims (of fake news) are both equally important values, we hope to establish a public consensus.”