Election Debate Commissioner Responds to Criticism Over Not Stopping Lee Junseok: "Fairness Is Also Important"

Song Yohun, a member of the Central Election Broadcasting Debate Commission, addressed recent criticism that the 21st presidential election TV debates were dominated by negative campaigning. He stated, "Some candidates expressed their aspirations if elected president, but others focused on attacking or disparaging their opponents." He added, "For viewers, the candidates' attitudes and personalities likely became important information."

On May 29, during an appearance on MBC Radio's 'Kim Jongbae's Focus,' Song said, "There has been debate about whether we should even be holding these kinds of debates these days, but I find it hard to agree with that. Because the campaign period was shortened due to the impeachment, viewers' desire for information probably was not fully met."

Lee Junseok, the presidential candidate of the Reform New Party, is preparing for a political TV debate held at the MBC studio in Sangamdong, Mapogu, Seoul on the 27th. 2025.5.27 Photo by National Assembly Press Photographers Group

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When asked by the radio host whether he should have intervened when Lee Junseok, the presidential candidate of the Reform New Party, quoted remarks about sexual violence during the third TV debate, Song replied, "Because these TV debates are organized by the National Election Commission, visible fairness is extremely important." He explained, "If a candidate violates the debate rules, the moderator can intervene, but if the moderator steps in too frequently, it can disrupt the flow of the debate. Of course, there should be mechanisms for control, but at the same time, voters will be observing not only the candidates' abilities but also their morality and character."

He continued, "The essence of Lee's remarks is that they were made between 8 and 10 p.m., a time when the whole family is likely watching TV together in the living room. The nature of broadcasting is that information is delivered without filters. That is why regulations on broadcasting are stricter than for newspapers, and this is ultimately an issue of the candidate's personal qualifications and character." Song added, "However, there is no penalty simply for violating the debate rules. Ultimately, voters must make their judgment afterwards through their votes."

Regarding the criticism that the total debate time of two hours was too short, he responded, "This is due to issues such as broadcasters' advertising revenue." Song explained, "If the Election Commission were given more budget and authority, I would like to see a greater variety of TV debates. But since there are accusations that the Election Commission is favoring one side or another, it is not easy for them to act freely."

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