Kang Yujeong, spokesperson, is briefing at the Chunchoo Auditorium of the Blue House on the 26th regarding the luncheon for bereaved families of workers who died in hazardous duties held at the Yongsan Presidential Office. Photo by Yonhap News
The Presidential Office stated its respect for the ongoing legislative process in the National Assembly regarding the amendment to the Information and Communications Network Act (the Act to Eradicate False and Manipulated Information), which strengthens sanctions against false and manipulated information. This is interpreted as a dismissal of some calls for the President to exercise his right to request reconsideration (veto) of the amendment.
Kang Yujeong, spokesperson for the Presidential Office, responded to a question at a briefing held at the Chunuchu Hall of the Blue House in the afternoon, regarding the opposition from some members of the opposition parties and civic groups to the bill and their calls for the President to exercise his veto. Kang stated, "The Presidential Office always respects the discussions in the National Assembly during the legislative process and is closely monitoring the ongoing debates."
On December 24, the National Assembly, led by the Democratic Party of Korea, passed the amendment to the Information and Communications Network Act. The bill includes provisions for imposing punitive damages on media outlets and YouTubers who intentionally distribute false or manipulated information. The Democratic Party of Korea insists that the bill, which they call the Act to Eradicate False and Manipulated Information, must be passed. However, opposition parties have expressed concerns that the amendment could discourage critical reporting of the government and infringe on freedom of expression.
Meanwhile, spokesperson Kang commented on the ongoing high inflation, saying, "At this morning's current affairs review meeting and tea time presided over by the President, there was a concerning review regarding inflation, and the President gave instructions that this issue should be closely examined."
In response to a question about high exchange rate volatility, Kang replied, "The Presidential Office is also closely monitoring the situation."
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