The Presidential Office announced a policy to separately collect TV license fees, while KBS expressed concerns that this could undermine the foundation of public broadcasting.
Kang Seung-gyu, Senior Secretary for Civil Society at the Presidential Office, is briefing on the convening of the National Proposal Review Committee at the Presidential Office building in Yongsan, Seoul, on the 5th. [Image source=Yonhap News]
On the 5th, KBS stated in a press release, "Separate collection of license fees is a critical issue that could damage the foundation of public broadcasting," adding, "We presented our opinions on this matter, but it is regrettable that they were not accepted."
They also explained, "Integrated collection of license fees is the most efficient method to maintain public broadcasting at minimal cost," and emphasized, "A thorough and sufficient discussion on changing the license fee collection method is necessary."
The KBS branch of the National Union of Mediaworkers also stated in a declaration, "An important decision that could determine the future of public broadcasting was made hastily, like roasting beans over a lightning fire."
On the same day, the Presidential Office recommended the Korea Communications Commission and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy to prepare amendments to relevant laws and follow-up measures to implement the separate collection of TV license fees.
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