KOPA "Real-time Search Term Law Must Be Halted... Encourages Private Censorship"

National Assembly Science, Technology, Information, Broadcasting and Communications Committee

[Asia Economy Reporter Bu Aeri] The Korea Internet Corporations Association has urged the suspension of the proposed amendment to the Information and Communications Network Act.

On the 3rd, the association issued a statement claiming that the amendment "encourages private censorship and risks abuse of state penal authority."

The proposed amendment to the Information and Communications Network Act, currently under discussion by the National Assembly's Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting Committee, is commonly referred to as the "Real-time Search Manipulation Prohibition Act." It includes provisions to prohibit the use of macro (automatic repetition) programs for improper purposes and to ban manipulation of information and communication services using others' personal information.

In the statement, the association opposed "excessive government and legislative intervention in private service domains," pointing out that "it violates constitutional principles, has a high risk of unconstitutionality, and could result in labeling value-neutral technology unilaterally as a criminal tool."

It added, "It will lead to widespread suppression of freedom of expression for all service users," emphasizing that "due to concerns about adverse effects on the entire internet industry, a cautious approach is necessary."

The association further urged, "The National Assembly should not aim to be the world's first in regulation but rather foster a constructive environment where information and communication service providers and users can autonomously enhance service reliability through diverse ideas and technological development."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.