Why Do People Spread Fake News?

South Korean society is marked by profound political and ideological polarization, making it challenging to achieve social consensus on nearly any issue. Despite this deep division, a rare point of agreement emerges: the widespread acceptance that 'fake news' poses a significant threat to social cohesion and stability.

While the definition of fake news and the identification of its creators remain subjects of differing beliefs across the political spectrum, the underlying motives are generally understood. It is widely acknowledged that individuals or organizations fabricate and disseminate false information for tangible benefits, whether financial or political. The deliberate spread of disinformation to achieve specific objectives is a tactic observed throughout history and across cultures.

However, the global perception of fake news as an existential threat has intensified with the rise of the hyper-connected society. The internet's capacity to spread information at unprecedented speeds and across vast networks has amplified the destructive potential of false narratives. This rapid and extensive dissemination means that fabricated information can have a proportionally magnified impact, posing a more significant challenge than ever before.