PPP Leader Jang Dong-hyk Opposes Revised Network Act: 'All Comments Critical of Government Will Vanish'

PPP Leader Jang Dong-hyk expressed concerns over the suppression of freedom of expression, arguing that the revised Network Act, which takes effect on the 7th, could allow the government to control public opinion under the guise of combating fake news. During the party's Supreme Council meeting at the National Assembly, Jang echoed criticisms labeling the law the 'Muzzle Law' and emphasized the dangers of a system that could impose fines of up to 1 billion won if the government arbitrarily defines content as fake news.

Jang linked the implementation of the law to the controversy surrounding the dismissal of President Lee Jae-myung's indictment, interpreting it as an attempt to block critical public opinion targeting both traditional media and YouTubers. Jang suggested that this trend could lead to a scenario involving constitutional amendments and attempts to extend his term in the long run, while declaring that his party would safeguard civil liberties through related legislative amendments and prosecutorial reform.

Meanwhile, Supreme Council members staged a protest by wearing black masks when entering the meeting hall to demonstrate their rejection of the revised bill.

Leader Jang also criticized the Democratic Party's special counsel bill recommended by a third party, warning that if the ruling party insists on an investigation structure that excludes the opposition, it will accelerate the downfall of the administration.