Korean Journalists Association: "Uphold, Stop Intimidating the Media"

The Korea Journalists Association (KJA) has urged the Korean Medical Association (KMA) to stop intimidating the press.

[Image source=Captured from the Korea Journalists Association website]

On the 27th, the KJA stated in a press release, "The KMA unilaterally notified multiple media outlets of suspension of access on the grounds that the content of the articles opposed the demands of doctors."

It added, "Im Hyun-taek, president of the KMA, posted links to articles on his personal SNS, effectively 'pinpointing' them, which incited criticism from members, and also mocked specific media reporters by mentioning their names. Since President Im has consistently used SNS to communicate his position as KMA president and inform members of future responses, the excuse that he was merely expressing free opinions on his personal SNS does not hold."

Criticism was also raised regarding the labeling of fact-checked articles as false reports. The KJA said, "The executive branch, to avoid exposure, made false explanations and demanded other reporters not to write articles, claiming the articles were false reports. Whenever reports opposing the KMA's stance are published, they claim 'it is not true' and recklessly issue public notices branding the reporters with the damaging label of 'false report,' which has happened more than once."

It continued, "All journalistic activities are conducted for the public's right to know and public benefit. The KMA must apologize for infringing on editorial rights and obstructing reporters' investigations, and promise to prevent recurrence."