Democratic Party Launches Special Committee on Media Reform... Jeong: "Punitive Damages for Repeated and Malicious Fake News"

Currently, Punitive Damages Apply to 23 Laws and Sectors
All Three Major Reform Committees Now in Operation After Prosecution and Judicial Reform

On August 14, the Democratic Party launched the Special Committee on Media Reform and announced its intention to pass a bill before Chuseok that would allow punitive damages for malicious, intentional, and repeated fake news.

Jeong Chungrae, leader of the Democratic Party, attended the launch ceremony and first meeting of the Special Committee on Media Reform held at the National Assembly that afternoon. He stated, "The focus of media reform is to protect the rights of the people by reducing the harm caused by malicious news. I hope the committee members will work swiftly and decisively to complete this before Chuseok, like a storm sweeping through and lightning striking."

Leader Jeong referred to his experience 20 years ago as secretary of the Special Committee on Media Development of the Uri Party, saying, "At that time, people in the media industry questioned why they should be the first to face punitive damages. Now, 20 years later, punitive damages have been introduced in 23 different laws."

Jeong Chungrae, leader of the Democratic Party, is taking a commemorative photo with the committee members at the launch ceremony and first meeting of the Special Committee on Media Reform held at the National Assembly on the 14th. From the left: Jang Sunmi, Lee Junhyung advisory member, Han Minsu committee member, Kim Hyun vice chairman, Leader Jeong, Lee Yongseong advisory member, Choi Minhui chairperson, Lee Kanghyuk advisory member, Noh Jongmyeon secretary, Lee Joohee, Chae Hyunil committee members. 2025.8.14 Photo by Kim Hyunmin

He mentioned all 23 bills containing punitive damages provisions and pointed out, "Is the harm caused by the media any less severe than that caused by these 23 industries and laws?"

Seemingly mindful of potential backlash from the media, Leader Jeong emphasized, "The purpose of punitive damages is not to punish the media. It would only apply in cases where fake news is produced maliciously, intentionally, and repeatedly, and the decision would be made by a judge."

He continued, "If the reform bill passes, I believe media outlets will be more proactive in fact-checking and taking preventive measures. Furthermore, the pride of the media and journalists will also be enhanced."

Choi Minhui, who chairs the Special Committee on Media Reform, said, "I believe all journalists present here would agree that media reform is necessary. We will proceed quickly, while ensuring sufficient communication on several key issues."

With the launch of the Special Committee on Media Reform, following the Special Committees on Prosecution Reform and Judicial Reform, all three major reform committees pledged by Leader Jeong are now in operation.