South Korea’s National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac confirms ongoing discussions with the United States regarding amendments to the Information and Communications Network Act on January 2, 2026. He acknowledges Washington’s worries about potential impacts on American tech companies while assuring that consultations shaped the final version.
US Raises Alarm Over Free Expression and Business
The US State Department expresses “significant concerns” that the revision aimed at combating false information and deepfakes could negatively affect US-based platforms like Google and Meta. Officials warn it undermines free expression and imposes unnecessary barriers on digital services, potentially straining bilateral tech cooperation.
Under Secretary Sarah Rogers echoes this, noting the law “reaches much further” than addressing defamatory content.
Seoul’s Defense and Ongoing Dialogue
Wi Sung-lac reveals US input partially influenced the text during drafting, though not fully as hoped. Korea’s Foreign Ministry insists the law targets no specific country or company, focusing instead on protecting users from digital harms. This exchange follows a November 2025 joint fact sheet committing both nations to non-discriminatory digital policies.
The revision, passed by the National Assembly and approved by the Cabinet in late December 2025, reflects domestic pushes for stronger online accountability amid misinformation concerns.This development highlights balancing national regulations with international alliances in the digital age.
South Korea’s Foreign Exchange Reserves Hover at Low 20% of GDP Amid Vulnerability Concerns 
South Korea’s 1.9% growth trails US again 
South Korea KFTC Chairperson Vows Crackdown on Digital Platform Abuses for 2026 
South Korea’s Exports Surpass $700 Billion in 2025, Ranking Sixth Globally 
People Power Party Expels Lee Hye-hoon Over Acceptance of Ministerial Post in Lee Jae-myung Government 
Former South Korean Minister Yoo Myung-hwan Reveals Tensions in Appointing Ambassadors to China