President Lee questions sanctions for biased broadcasting

President Lee Jae-myung has voiced strong concerns over the perceived bias and lack of neutrality in some South Korean general programming channels. During a meeting with ministers, he questioned whether sanctions exist for broadcasters that operate like party organs, losing their objectivity and fairness.

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Are there sanctions if a broadcaster is very biased, loses neutrality, and lacks fairness like a party organ?

Lee specifically addressed the head of the Korea Communications Commission, asking about penalties for channels that exhibit extreme bias or spread false information. The commission head confirmed that such broadcasters are subject to review and sanctions, which can lead to disadvantages during the re-licensing process. However, President Lee expressed skepticism about the actual enforcement of these penalties over time.

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Broadcasters are subject to review under the broadcasting 심의제도 (deliberation system), and they receive sanctions for violations. Accumulated sanctions can lead to disadvantages in the re-licensing and re-approval process.

"I haven't heard of sanctions being imposed over such a long period," Lee stated, emphasizing that judgments should be made from the public's perspective. He questioned why biased broadcasting is tolerated for extended periods, urging for communication and broadcasting administration that aligns with legal intent and public expectations. The president stressed that the administration must act in accordance with the public's viewpoint, highlighting instances where broadcasting content is visibly problematic and warrants intervention.

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I haven't heard of sanctions being imposed over such a long period. Aren't all judgments made from the public's perspective?