Kathmandu: South Korea’s liberal-led National Assembly on Wednesday passed a bill that would allow heavy fines and punitive damages against traditional and online media outlets for publishing what is deemed “false or fabricated information,” despite strong warnings over potential threats to press freedom.

The bill, proposed by the ruling Democratic Party, was approved by a majority vote amid opposition from journalists’ groups, civil liberties advocates and the main conservative opposition party. Critics have urged President Lee Jae-myung to veto the legislation, citing risks of censorship and vague legal definitions.

Concerns Over Press Freedom
Journalists’ organizations and legal experts argue that the bill does not clearly define what constitutes “false or fabricated information” and lacks adequate safeguards to protect media freedom. They warn that the law could discourage investigative and critical reporting on public officials, politicians and large corporations due to fear of legal action.

Opposition lawmakers from the People Power Party (PPP) have also raised concerns that even minor inaccuracies or contested claims could fall under the law’s scope, potentially turning it into a tool to silence critics.

Government’s Rationale
Democratic Party leaders have defended the bill, stating that the rapid spread of fake news and misinformation is undermining democracy by fueling social division and hate speech. They argue that the legislation is necessary to counter intentional and harmful dissemination of false information.

According to the bill, courts may order news organizations and major YouTube channels found to have spread illegal or false information to pay punitive damages of up to five times the proven harm. In cases where damages are difficult to quantify, compensation of up to 50 million won (approximately $34,200) may be imposed.

The country’s media regulator is also empowered to fine media outlets up to one billion won (around $684,000) for distributing information ruled by courts to be false or repeatedly manipulated.

Vote and Political Divide
The bill was passed by a vote of 170–3, with four abstentions. Several lawmakers from the PPP boycotted the vote after earlier delaying proceedings through extended debate. During discussions, PPP lawmaker Choi So-jin warned that the legislation could be misused to intimidate critics through lawsuits.

Assurances and Ongoing Criticism
Democratic Party officials have insisted that punitive damages will apply only when false information is intentionally spread for harmful or profit-driven purposes and causes actual damage. They also note that satire, parody and legitimate criticism are exempt, and that the law bars lawsuits aimed at obstructing public-interest oversight.

However, journalist unions and legal experts remain unconvinced, describing these safeguards as vague and difficult to apply in practice. The National Union of Media Workers has called on the government to narrowly define the law’s scope during implementation to prevent infringement on freedom of expression.

The bill now awaits President Lee’s decision, amid mounting pressure from media and civil society groups for a careful review or veto.