Paju City Takes Strong Action with Zero Tolerance for Illegal and Hate-Inciting Banners

Phrases Violating Human Rights and Citizen Interests
to Be Swiftly Removed After Expert Review

Paju City in Gyeonggi Province has announced strict administrative action against political banners that incite hate.

Paju City Hall view. Provided by Paju City

The city has determined that banners containing language that insults others or violates human rights fall outside the scope of legitimate political activity and are considered "prohibited advertisements." The city plans to remove such banners. This measure aims to restore the value of public spaces by actively reflecting citizens' demands for improvement regarding the negative effects of indiscriminate banners.

With a commitment to ensuring that streets serve as pleasant spaces for daily life rather than arenas of conflict, the city has designated banners containing hate speech as the top priority for removal. To ensure objectivity in administrative action, the city will require legal consultation from an attorney before convening the Outdoor Advertising Review Committee. After securing the legitimacy of administrative action through expert legal review, the city will proceed with strict enforcement according to the relevant procedures.

The removal process will be managed through a systematic system: after legal review, the Outdoor Advertising Review Committee will conduct a prompt review, followed by corrective orders and compulsory removal. By shifting the decision-making body to an independent review committee, the city aims to ensure fairness in administration and focus its efforts on swiftly removing elements that harm public sentiment, regardless of specific interests.

A Paju City official stated, "Based on prior legal review, we will respond without delay to any banners that cross the line," adding, "We are committed to citizen-centered administration and will remove all advertising elements that fuel social conflict, creating a dignified urban environment that citizens can truly appreciate."