"Global Content Providers Should Not Use Networks for Free"... Debate Over Fair Compensation Moves to National Assembly

Policy Forum for Creating a Fair Network Usage Ecosystem to Be Held on the 28th
Lee Haemin: "Fair Network Usage Is a Matter of Institutionalizing Common Sense"

Legislative discussions on the burden of network usage fees by global content providers (CPs) are set to begin in earnest. On July 24, it was announced that Representative Lee Haemin (Progressive Innovation Party) and Representative Kim Wooyoung (Democratic Party of Korea) will jointly host a "Policy Forum for Creating a Fair Network Usage Ecosystem" at the National Assembly Members' Office Building on July 28.

The main issue centers on the structural imbalance in which some global CPs, such as YouTube and Netflix, generate massive traffic on domestic telecommunications networks while not bearing the costs of network maintenance. There are also concerns that costs passed on to telecommunications companies will ultimately result in higher prices or lower quality, leading to harm for the public.

This forum aims to explore legislative approaches to restoring the principle of "the traffic generator pays." In particular, as the United States increases pressure by labeling related bills as "digital trade barriers," discussions will also address digital sovereignty and diplomatic response strategies.

The keynote presentation will be delivered by Professor Shin Minsu of Hanyang University. Panelists include Professor Lee Jongmyung of Sungkyunkwan University, Bang Hyochang, Policy Committee Chair of the Citizens' Coalition for Economic Justice, Han Seokhyun, Head of the YMCA Citizen Mediation Office, Kim Jiwon, Director of Telecommunications Competition Policy at the Ministry of Science and ICT, Jeon Hyesun, Director of User Policy at the Korea Communications Commission, and Choi Jineung, Legislative Researcher at the National Assembly Research Service.

Representative Lee Haemin emphasized, "The issue of network usage fees is a matter of common-sense contract principles," adding, "Since the European Union is also pushing forward with the Digital Networks Act (DNA Act), we must not be swayed by external pressure."

Representative Kim Wooyoung stated, "The principle of fair network usage is ultimately the foundation for user protection and the sustainability of the digital ecosystem," and added, "It is time for global CPs to demonstrate a responsible attitude."