South Korean Police Mobilized to Combat Online Hate Speech

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has instructed police to take significant action against online hate speech, asserting that such behavior “crosses the boundary of freedom of expression.” This directive comes amidst rising anti-foreigner sentiment, particularly aimed at Chinese nationals, highlighted by large-scale protests in the lead-up to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Busan last month.

The backdrop to this crackdown is notable. In 2022, the number of foreign residents in South Korea reached a record high of 2.58 million, accounting for approximately 5 percent of the population. The recent protests reflect mounting concerns over rapid demographic changes in a country that has long maintained a homogeneous society.

During a Cabinet meeting on March 15, 2024, Lee emphasized the urgency of addressing what he described as rampant hate speech and disinformation on social media platforms. He stated, “Acts such as distorting or manipulating facts, spreading racial hatred or discrimination — the circulation of such false information is an act that threatens democracy, and because it threatens the daily lives of our citizens, it must be regarded as a crime.”

Lee’s remarks extend to senior officials, as he assured that they would be held to the same standards as public officials regarding hate speech. This includes Ahn Chang-ho, the current chair of the National Human Rights Commission, who has faced backlash for anti-LGBTQ+ comments made during his confirmation hearing.

In a further move to reinforce this crackdown, Lee approved a proposal from Personnel Management Minister Choi Dong-suk to facilitate the immediate dismissal of civil servants engaged in hate speech. He stated that this rule should be adopted as soon as possible, according to the Korea Times.

The international response has also been notable. Dai Bing, the Chinese ambassador to South Korea, expressed concerns regarding the spread of anti-China disinformation and protests led by far-right groups. He stated, “Far-right forces in Korea are spreading disinformation about China and organizing anti-China protests, which not only damage the friendship between our two countries but also tarnish Korea’s national image.”

Looking ahead, South Korea remains one of the few members of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) without a comprehensive anti-discrimination law. During the same Cabinet meeting, Lee expressed support for Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho’s initiative to foster parliamentary discussion on such legislation, which would draw inspiration from similar laws in Japan and Europe. Additionally, Lee advocated for the abolition of a clause in the country’s criminal defamation law that permits punishment for factual statements, arguing that such issues should be resolved in civil court rather than through criminal penalties.

As South Korea grapples with these complex issues, the government’s stance and actions may significantly shape the nation’s social landscape and its approach to diversity in the years to come.