The Economist: "Moon Administration Criticizes Others Well but Does Not Accept Criticism of Itself"

Cheongwadae Criticized for Responding to Media Reports by Democratic Party, Introducing Sejong the Great's Remarks

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] "They are accustomed to criticizing others but refuse to accept criticism of themselves."

On the 22nd (local time), the British current affairs weekly The Economist pointed this out in a column titled "South Korea's progressive government emits inner authoritarianism." The magazine noted, "President Moon Jae-in promised a more open and tolerant government toward differing opinions early in his administration, but the values he promoted at the time appear to be fading."

Screenshot of an online article from The Economist UK

For example, last year, the Blue House demanded a correction and filed a complaint with the Press Arbitration Commission regarding a newspaper column titled "First Lady Kim Jung-sook's Bucket List?" The Blue House argued that likening the president's overseas trip schedule to a sightseeing tour was a diplomatic faux pas. This case later escalated to a court-ordered correction request, but the Blue House lost.

The column also mentioned the case of Professor Lim Mi-ri from Korea University, who published a column in the Kyunghyang Shinmun criticizing the Democratic Party of Korea. The Economist introduced this by stating, "The Democratic Party filed a complaint against a political science professor who argued that the party was selfish and that people should vote for other parties."

The magazine also introduced the fact that Democratic Party lawmakers proposed a bill granting the government authority to order corrections of fake news, stating, "There are problems in the legislature as well."

The case of conservative YouTuber Woo Jong-chang, who is serving a prison sentence after being convicted of spreading rumors related to former Minister of Justice Cho Kuk, was also introduced. Earlier, the international press freedom organization Reporters Without Borders (RSF) issued a statement demanding Woo's release.

The Economist explained the progressive government's inability to accept criticism as a result of the historical 'left-right confrontation' framework. The progressive government identifies itself as opposing military regimes, which leads it to see itself as the underdog and to refuse to acknowledge the freedom of voices opposing it. This attitude has continued even after coming to power. Furthermore, the magazine pointed out a tendency to regard some media outlets as merely "mouthpieces of specific political forces." Because of this, when criticism arises, a victim mentality operates within the government.

The Economist said, "Since Korean politicians like to quote old sayings, it would be good for the Moon Jae-in administration to carefully consider the words of King Sejong," introducing a statement King Sejong made in 1425.

"I am neither a noble great man nor skilled in governance. There will surely be times when I act against the will of Heaven. Therefore, diligently find my faults and let me respond to that criticism," he said.