Press Freedom at Risk? Concerns Rise Over Online Attacks on Journalists

The presidential office on Tuesday reaffirmed its support for a new live briefing format that highlights both spokespersons and reporters, describing it as a step toward greater transparency and improved public access to information.

At the same time, officials addressed growing concerns over online harassment targeting journalists, expressing alarm about potential threats to press freedom.

Introduced on June 24, the “interactive briefing” system allows cameras to alternate between the spokesperson and the reporters during live press conferences.

In a memo to the press corps, Lee Kyu-youn, the senior presidential secretary for public relations, noted that the format has been well-received for “expanding access to government information.”

Lee also pointed out that the new approach is being credited with addressing a persistent issue in South Korean media—an over-reliance on unnamed sources.

However, he acknowledged concerns about unintended consequences.

“We’ve seen instances of excessive online defamation, malicious comments, and manipulated video clips targeting journalists who ask questions,” Lee stated. “The presidential office is deeply troubled by any actions that could compromise press freedom and journalistic activities.”

Lee cautioned that sharing doctored footage from these briefings could lead to legal repercussions related to defamation.

These remarks come amid a recent controversy involving an OBS reporter who faced online backlash after asking a question during a live briefing.

During the June 27 session, the journalist inquired about a private dinner meeting between President Lee Jae Myung and media executives. Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung responded, “Even if such an event took place, it was not open to the public.”

Kang further remarked, “It is inappropriate to disclose details of private events during a live broadcast.”

Following this exchange, the reporter was hit with a barrage of online criticism, with some accusing them of intentionally leaking confidential information. Subsequently, the journalist was removed from the presidential beat.

Despite the ongoing debate, the presidential office confirmed its commitment to maintaining and refining the interactive briefing format, emphasizing its benefits for public engagement.