South Korea has begun enforcing a new law and amendment to its communications act designed to clamp down on purveyors of false information online. Under this legislation, courts can now award steep punitive damages against news outlets and social media influencers, potentially costing them up to five times the damage.
The enforcement follows a surge in online misinformation after a botched 2024 martial law attempt, which included unsubstantiated allegations regarding Chinese interference in the electoral system.
Journalists and civil liberties groups have expressed alarm, warning that the vaguely worded law could threaten freedom of speech, invite censorship, and chill public discourse. Critics specifically worry that the legislation could discourage critical reporting about large businesses, politicians, and government officials.