The 50th anniversary of the Declaration for Freedom of the Press was commemorated in Seoul, where the ruling Democratic Party of Korea emphasized the importance of protecting press freedom. In a statement, the party’s chief spokesperson highlighted the historical significance of the declaration, which was initially made in protest against oppressive measures by the authoritarian regime in 1974.
The spokesperson also pointed out the current threats facing press freedom in South Korea, particularly under the current government of Yoon Suk-yeol. The government’s actions, including arbitrary searches of critical media outlets and attempts to control public broadcasting, were strongly condemned. The party reiterated its commitment to defending press freedom and restoring public broadcasting to serve the people.
The Declaration for Freedom of the Press, originally issued by journalists from Dong-A Ilbo in 1974, emphasized the fundamental role of a free press in upholding democracy. It rejected external interference in media activities and affirmed journalists’ dedication to practicing press freedom. The declaration inspired similar statements from journalists across the country, highlighting the ongoing struggle to uphold press freedom in South Korea.
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