The U.S. State Department’s 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices have raised concerns about restrictions on press and freedom of expression in South Korea. The report acknowledged that South Korea has an independent press and democratic institutions but pointed out that certain laws and the operation of government agencies could restrict these freedoms.

The report specifically cited the disciplinary action taken by the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) against MBC's Newsdesk in March of last year, during the Yoon Suk Yeol administration. At the time, MBC used a large blue '1' graphic while reporting on air pollution in Seoul. The People Power Party filed a complaint, arguing that the graphic was reminiscent of the Democratic Party of Korea and constituted a violation of the Public Official Election Act. The Election Broadcasting Review Committee, a sub-committee of the KCSC, interpreted this as a potential endorsement of a major opposition party and passed a motion for "sanctions against relevant personnel," which is a severe level of legal penalty.

The report questioned the impartiality of the KCSC, highlighting the issue of its nine members being politically appointed. It also noted that media outlets and press unions have consistently expressed concerns about restrictions on press freedom. The report further criticized the government for restricting freedom of expression and internet access through its interpretation and enforcement of the National Security Act and other laws.

In addition to press freedom, issues with workers' rights were also a major topic. The report mentioned the conflict over the increase in medical school admissions quotas that began in February of last year between the government and medical students, residents, and interns. It stated that the mass resignation and collective action by medical professionals continued until December. The report detailed that doctors were concerned about the deepening issues of long working hours and low wages and raised the possibility of a decline in the quality of medical education.

However, the report did not make any particular mention of the state of martial law declared in December of last year.

[Copyright (c) Global Economic Times. All Rights Reserved.]