Post by : Saif Nasser
South Korea is considering new steps to control how teenagers use social media, as worries grow about the impact of online platforms on young people. A government nominee has said that protecting teens from online harm should be a major goal of the country’s media policy.
Kim Jong-cheol, the nominee to lead South Korea’s broadcast and media commission, spoke about the issue during a parliamentary hearing on Tuesday. He told lawmakers that the commission has a duty to ensure people can communicate freely while also staying safe in the digital space. According to him, this duty includes taking stronger action to protect teenagers.
When asked whether South Korea should consider limits similar to those introduced in Australia, Kim said such measures should be explored. Australia recently became the first country to ban social media use for children under the age of 16. Kim said he believes South Korea also needs to look seriously at this approach.
He explained that young people face many risks online, and the government cannot ignore them. Kim added that if he takes office, he will treat the protection of teenagers as one of his top priorities.
Concerns about social media use among teenagers are rising around the world. Experts often link heavy use of online platforms to mental health problems such as stress, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Other risks include cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content, and reduced focus on schoolwork.
In South Korea, these concerns are especially strong. The country has one of the highest internet usage rates in the world, and many teenagers spend hours each day on social media apps. Online life plays a big role in how young people learn, socialize, and express themselves.
Supporters of stricter rules say age-based limits could help protect teenagers during an important stage of their development. They argue that children need more guidance and protection until they are mature enough to handle online pressure and risks.
However, some people are cautious about strict bans. Critics say such rules may be hard to enforce and could raise concerns about personal freedom. Others believe that education, digital literacy, and parental involvement should come before legal restrictions.
Kim did not provide details on what kind of limits might be introduced or when they could take effect. Any new policy would need approval from lawmakers and cooperation from technology companies. Public discussion is also expected before any final decision is made.
As more countries study the effects of social media on young people, South Korea’s debate shows how serious the issue has become. Governments worldwide are trying to find the right balance between digital freedom and child safety.
Kim’s comments suggest that South Korea is ready to take stronger steps if needed. Whether through limits, guidelines, or new laws, the country appears focused on creating a safer online environment for its younger generation.
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