Seoul, South Korea – President Lee Jae-myung stated today he intends to pursue revisions to media arbitration law focusing on punitive damages for false reporting, but cautioned against targeting only customary media outlets. He argued that accountability should extend to platforms like YouTube, where misinformation also proliferates.
Speaking at a 100-day press conference held at the Blue House Young-guk on September 11, 2025, President Lee emphasized a distinction between unintentional errors and deliberately false data. The proposed revisions, which he clarified he is discussing with his party but not directly legislating, aim to impose substantial compensation for demonstrably false reporting, while avoiding accusations of “press oppression” by broadening the scope of accountability. He suggested a path forward of strict penalties for “fake news” coupled with significant financial redress for those harmed, but without singling out the media as the sole target.
“There are people who pay attention to fake news on YouTube, not just the media,” President Lee said. He further proposed, “Do not touch the media arbitration law, and compensate,” stressing the difference between “wrong information” and a simple “mistake.”
