Cheong, on Petition to Ban Sale of Ultra-Small Cameras: "Government Actively Participates in Legislative Discussions"

Considering Effective Responses and Concerns Over Hindering Industrial Development, Alternatives Prepared... Related Bills Pending in the National Assembly

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] The Blue House conveyed its intention to actively participate in legislative discussions in response to the national petition to ban the sale of ultra-small cameras.

On the 13th, Ko Ju-hee, head of the Blue House Digital Communication Center, responded to the 'National Petition to Ban the Sale of Ultra-Small Cameras.' The Blue House explained, "The petitioner requested regulation on the distribution of ultra-small cameras disguised as glasses, pens, picture frames, etc., which are being used in illegal filming crimes," adding, "More than 230,000 citizens agreed with this petition."

Center head Ko stated, "The petitioner mentioned the need for regulation of ultra-small cameras that are being misused in illegal filming crimes. The government empathizes with the petitioner’s concerns about exposure to illegal cameras."

The view of Cheongwadae from Namsan, Seoul. Photo by Hyunmin Kim kimhyun81@

Center head Ko explained, "Currently, measures to strengthen management, such as introducing a registration system for ultra-small and modified cameras and penalty provisions for violations, are being discussed. Rather than a blanket ban on the sale of ultra-small cameras used in various fields, the approach is to respond effectively to crimes that misuse them."

In this regard, the 'Act on the Management of Modified Cameras' proposed by Jin Sun-mi, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, is pending in the National Assembly’s standing committee.

Center head Ko said, "Those who handle modified cameras without registration shall be subject to imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of up to 20 million won, among other provisions," and added, "The government will actively participate in and support the legislative discussions to ensure that the bill effectively responds to crimes involving modified cameras while minimizing concerns about hindering industrial development."

The government is conducting proactive preventive activities to alleviate social anxiety and is strengthening on-site capabilities such as illegal camera detection. The police are carrying out crime prevention activities, including intensive inspections for illegal cameras in schools and public facilities.

Center head Ko stated, "Since March, we have conducted intensive crackdowns on cyber sexual violence illegal distribution networks and distributors, arresting a total of 449 people in 423 cases by June and recovering 380 million won in criminal proceeds. We will continue crackdowns to protect victims and prevent further harm."