[Exclusive] Legislation Proposed for 'Editorial Independence Guarantee Act' in Media Acquisition

Hong Ik-pyo, Chairman of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee, Preparing Amendment to Newspaper Act
Mandatory Submission of 'Editing and Production Operation Plan' When Acquiring Media Companies
Includes Guarantee of Editorial and Reporting Freedom and Independence in Form of Self-Regulation

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] A bill mandating the submission of an ‘Editing and Production Operation Plan’ to guarantee freedom of the press when companies acquire newspapers or other media outlets will soon be proposed. The ‘Editing and Production Operation Plan’ is intended to serve as a mechanism to ensure the freedom and independence of media editing and reporting, as well as the protection of readers' rights.

Hong Ik-pyo, Member of the Democratic Party of Korea./Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

On the 19th, Hong Ik-pyo, chairman of the National Assembly’s Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee and a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, is preparing to propose a partial amendment to the ‘Act on the Promotion of Newspapers, etc. (Newspaper Act)’ containing these provisions. On the same day, Chairman Hong held a related forum with the ‘National Union of Media Workers’ at the National Assembly Members’ Office Building. Based on the discussions held at the forum, the contents of the bill will be finalized before proceeding with the formal legislative process.

Chairman Hong had previously pointed out issues arising when companies such as construction firms acquire media outlets during this year’s government audit. On October 5th, during the audit, he mentioned the acquisition of media outlets by construction companies, stating, "It is significantly influencing the editorial rights of newspapers," and criticized the rapid increase in promotional articles related to construction companies that had not existed before. He further pointed out that "(companies acquiring media outlets) use the acquired media as a shield against negative articles."

Regarding this, Chairman Hong said, "When there is a change in newspaper management rights, it is necessary to disclose operational plans such as editorial independence and employment succession and at least submit them to the relevant local government and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism," adding, "For proper self-regulation, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism must create safeguards during the process of media acquisition by companies."

Based on these issues, Chairman Hong included in the bill a provision requiring companies acquiring media outlets to submit an ‘Editing and Production Operation Plan’ to realize editorial freedom and independence and protect readers’ rights, thereby guaranteeing freedom of the press. According to the current Newspaper Act, newspapers, internet newspapers, and internet news services must report the ‘publisher and editor, location, and distribution target’ to the mayor or governor of the city or province. In cases of transfer or merger of media outlets, a reporting process to the mayor or governor is also required. Chairman Hong’s bill adds a new requirement to submit an ‘Editing and Production Operation Plan’ during this reporting process.

This plan allows newspapers and others to self-regulate. The Editing and Production Operation Plan must include contents related to Articles 4 and 6 of the Newspaper Act, which stipulate editorial freedom and independence and the protection of readers’ rights. It is stipulated that the plan must contain provisions ensuring that the media outlet guarantees editorial freedom and independence while faithfully serving the interests of readers.

Regarding this bill, Chairman Hong said, "It is very important to create an independent media reporting environment where editorial rights and journalistic activities are not restricted by capital," adding, "This bill was prepared because companies acquiring media outlets should not interfere with editorial decisions or restrict reporters’ journalistic activities." He emphasized, "A free and fair media reporting environment is crucial for securing the sustainable health of our society," and said, "Anyone can acquire a media outlet, but it is very important to improve the system so that editorial and journalistic activities are not constrained."