South Korean Human Rights Forum Disrupted by Discriminatory Remarks, Sparking Internal Debate

A forum on combating hate speech in schools, organized by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), erupted in controversy when an audience member made remarks perceived as discriminatory and inciting violence. The incident occurred during a discussion at the National Assembly on how to prevent hate speech in educational settings.

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No matter how much you learn from books, it doesn't bring the same realization as getting hit once.

The audience member stated, "No matter how much you learn from books, it doesn't bring the same realization as getting hit once," and "Nowadays, schools teach that friendship is homosexuality." These comments were interpreted as attempts to rationalize violence and express prejudice against sexual minorities. Other attendees called out "This is hate speech" and demanded factual basis for the remarks. A student who had previously disclosed their sexual identity became visibly distressed and left the room.

Moderator Hong Sung-soo, a professor at Sookmyung Women's University, repeatedly emphasized that certain statements were unacceptable in such a setting and moved to retrieve the microphone. The audience member protested, accusing the moderator of stifling free speech. Kim Hak-ja, a standing committee member of the NHRC, then stepped forward, stating, "We respect and value everyone's opinions. Time is limited, and students are watching." She proceeded to block further attempts by audience members to speak.

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Nowadays, schools teach that friendship is homosexuality.

Kim Hak-ja's comment about respecting all opinions has sparked internal debate within the NHRC. Critics argue that such a statement could create misunderstandings about the commission's stance on hate speech, especially during a forum dedicated to addressing it. Some NHRC staff expressed disappointment, believing the commission should have clearly defined its standards on hate speech and unequivocally condemned the remarks. Conversely, others defended Kim Hak-ja's statement as an attempt to de-escalate the situation in a tense environment, noting that she also showed concern for the student affected by the comments.

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We respect and value everyone's opinions. Time is limited, and students are watching.

Kim Hak-ja, appointed in February and recommended by the People Power Party, currently chairs the NHRC's Committee on Children's Rights and the Committee on Infringement and Relief II. She disagreed with the criticism, telling Hankyoreh, "It is shameful to belatedly stir up controversy over how adults should have behaved in front of students." She added, "I regret that my words are being interpreted differently, despite the situation being clear and understandable."

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It is shameful to belatedly stir up controversy over how adults should have behaved in front of students. I regret that my words are being interpreted differently, despite the situation being clear and understandable.