The nominee for the Korea Media Communications Commission has voiced support for considering a ban on teenagers' social media use to protect them from online harms. Drawing parallels to Australia's recent age restrictions, he emphasized youth protection as a core responsibility. The commission later clarified it is not currently pursuing a ban for those under 16.
During a parliamentary confirmation hearing on December 16, Kim Jong-cheol, a professor at Yonsei Law School nominated by President Lee Jae Myung to head the Korea Media Communications Commission (KMCC), stated he would consider a ban on teenagers' social media use to protect minors from harmful online content. Responding to questions about age restrictions like those in Australia, he said, "I believe it is absolutely necessary." He added, "Youth protection is one of the core issues among my key responsibilities, and I am prepared to pursue this task with a strong commitment."
Australia recently banned those under 16 from platforms such as Instagram, X, and TikTok, citing risks like cyberbullying, online scams, and exposure to damaging material. However, the KMCC issued a press release clarifying that Kim's remarks do not indicate an immediate push for a ban under 16. Instead, it involves exploring options, including stricter parental or guardian consent requirements.
Addressing AI risks in media, Kim plans to bolster dispute resolution mechanisms amid rising incidents of hacking and cyberterrorism affecting users. "As increasingly sophisticated AI technologies are being used for hacking and cyberterrorism, the number of victims in the media and communications sector is rising rapidly," he noted, while criticizing weakened protections for social media users. He also aims to promote AI adoption in broadcasting to foster innovation and global competitiveness.
Kim highlighted overly complex platform withdrawal processes, resurfacing after a recent Coupang data breach. "Subscription and withdrawal processes should be guaranteed at an equal level," he said. These positions reflect efforts to balance youth safety, AI governance, and user rights in South Korea's evolving media landscape.
