New KCC Commissioner Sang-in Lee: "KCC Must Also Follow the President's National Governance Philosophy"

Lee Sang-in, the newly appointed standing commissioner of the Korea Communications Commission (KCC), stated on the 4th, "Since the KCC is also a central administrative agency directly under the President, it is appropriate for it to operate according to the President's philosophy of national governance."

On the same day, Lee met with reporters at the Government Complex Gwacheon and said, "Once the newly launched 6th commission is appointed, we will cooperate well and do our best to ensure that the KCC can fulfill its responsibilities and roles effectively."

Lee was appointed as the successor to former standing commissioner Kim Chang-ryong and was nominated by the President. He graduated from Seoul National University Law School, began his judicial career as the 17th class of the Judicial Research and Training Institute, and served as a research judge at the Supreme Court and chief judge at the Incheon District Court. He was also a director at KBS from 2009 to 2015.

Lee explained his background for joining the KCC by saying, "During my six years as a KBS director, I met many professors and professionals in the broadcasting field and had extensive discussions on recent issues such as the governance structure of public broadcasting and the license fee."

He added, "Now, ten years later, the broadcasting and telecommunications environment has changed rapidly. In this situation, the fact that the media and telecommunications are at the center of political conflicts is hindering the development of the KCC. I believe the KCC should play a role in responding more actively to global changes. We will work to take on roles that go beyond regulation."

Regarding the possibility of dismissal of Chairman Han Sang-hyuk, who was indicted without detention on charges related to allegations of score manipulation in the TV Chosun license renewal review, Lee said, "I understand that there are judicial risks such as prosecution following the prosecution's investigation, and even personnel issues are being raised. However, as a standing commissioner, I think it is inappropriate to comment directly on this matter at this time. I will observe the situation and then consult with other commissioners to prepare a plan."

On the review of separate collection of KBS license fees, Lee said, "Institutional improvement has been discussed for a long time, but the situation now is very different from before. I will discuss this further with other commissioners and clarify our position."