Freedom of Expression and the Verification of Identity Policy in Korea

In: Policy & internet, Band 4, Heft 3-4, S. 206-228

Abstract

AbstractThis study investigates the Korean Government's Verification of Identity Policy by looking at the discourse surrounding its introduction and using a survey to determine the extent to which the policy was a success. While the Internet allows unprecedented freedom of expression and public opinion gathering, it also facilitates anonymity and facelessness, which increases the possibility of damage caused by deviant online behavior. The Verification of Identity Policy was aimed at fostering a more responsible Internet culture. At the beginning, it faced fierce resistance from civic groups but media coverage of innocent and high‐profile victims has changed public opinion and facilitated the implementation of the policy in 2006. Although arguments about freedom of anonymous expression and relief of damage by restrictions on freedom continue, the Verification of Identity Policy is evaluated here as a partial success, having maintained public support despite the possibility of restrictions on freedom of expression. Nevertheless, this policy perspective recommends that the Korean Government should invest in a broader and long‐term Internet usage plan than the development of just one universal policy.