Culture Ministry Activates Internal Response Team for 'Yoon Seok-yeol Coffee Fake News'

Plan for Institutional Response and Brake Measures Preparation

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism announced on the 6th that it has formed an internal response team regarding the so-called 'Yoon Seok-yeol coffee fake news' incident and is reviewing necessary measures. It plans to closely monitor the investigation results of law enforcement agencies concerning the interview process and reporting by the online media NewsTapa, and to track and analyze the full details of the incident. A ministry official stated, "We are examining the vicious cycle in which the fake news was circulated and reproduced through some broadcasts and newspapers," adding, "We will look into whether NewsTapa's reporting process and content violate the Newspaper Act, and cooperate with the Korea Communications Commission and Seoul Metropolitan Government to take action." Seoul is the registered local government for NewsTapa.

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Park Bo-gyun is adjusting his mask while attending the audit of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism held at the National Assembly on the 5th. Photo by Yoon Dong-ju doso7@

The Ministry plans to use this case as an opportunity to establish institutional responses and control measures against organized fake news that manipulates public sentiment and undermines a healthy media environment and liberal democracy. Minister Park Bo-gyun said, "This incident, reminiscent of the 2002 ‘Kim Dae-up fake news’ case, has evolved in an organized and despicable manner into a 'fake news cartel joint operation.' It is a matter that utterly damages the trust and fairness of the media," and added, "We will actively respond to the public's anger and demand to uncover the suspected cartel-like division of roles."