[2022 National Audit] "Ministry of Culture Opposes Bill Imposing Network Usage Fees"

Rep. Sangheon Lee's Inquiry: "Increased Burden on Domestic Content Producers"
Korea Game Industry Association Also States, "May Harm Consumer Interests"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has expressed opposition to the bill imposing network usage fees.

Lee Sang-heon, a member of the National Assembly's Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee (Democratic Party), recently disclosed on the 5th the Ministry's stance on the amendment to the Telecommunications Business Act he received. The Ministry stated, "The intention is to impose usage fees on large global operators," but also noted, "There needs to be sufficient consultation as it could increase the burden on domestic content producers." Lee explained, "It is interpreted as an attempt to put the brakes on as the National Assembly's Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting and Communications Committee accelerates the bill review."

The Ministry also voiced opposition at a National Assembly policy forum. This was at the "K-Content Industry and Desirable Network Usage Policy Direction Forum" hosted by Lee on the 20th of last month. Choi Jae-won, head of the Broadcasting, Video and Advertising Division at the Ministry, who participated as a discussant, said, "Domestic content providers (CP) may face reverse discrimination when expanding overseas," and questioned, "Is this issue urgent enough to push for legislation?" He emphasized, "The opinions of CPs must be reflected."

The gaming industry’s response was no different. The Korea Game Industry Association expressed concerns in a written inquiry sent to Lee, stating, "It is necessary to consider that an increase in telecommunications network costs could harm consumer interests." They added, "The intention to respond to global CPs could inadvertently lead to reverse discrimination or increased burdens on domestic or small and medium CPs," and called for "careful review."

Lee stressed, "The issue of imposing network usage fees involves significant differences in positions among various stakeholders," and emphasized, "There must be ample time to listen to diverse voices."