Hong Joon-pyo Vows Stern Action Against 'Fake News Peddlers' from July

Former Daegu Mayor Hong Joon-pyo has signaled a strong response against those who spread false information about him. He issued this warning based on amendments to the Information and Communications Network Act, which are set to take effect in July.

In a post on his Facebook page on the 20th, Hong stated, "The law to regulate YouTubers eradicating fake news will be implemented starting July 7th this year." He warned, "From then on, I will mercilessly punish those who make absurd accusations against me."

He characterized a society rife with fake news as a 'sick society,' remarking, "It is difficult to build a healthy society without eradicating these 'beggar YouTubers.'" Hong has been critical of YouTubers making extreme claims for some time.

The revised Information and Communications Network Act, scheduled to take effect in July, holds individuals liable for up to five times the damages if they spread false or manipulated information with the intent to harm others. Some organizations have already filed a constitutional complaint against the amendment.