Republic of Korea: Amendment to Information and Communications Network Act to address overseas-based manipulation of online public opinion was introduced to National Assembly

On 26 February 2026, a Bill amending the Information and Communications Network Act to address overseas-based manipulation of online public opinion was introduced to the National Assembly. The Bill applies to information and communications service providers that meet criteria to be specified by Presidential Decree, including thresholds based on average daily users, revenue, and business type. It requires covered providers to adopt technical and managerial measures to prevent abnormal use of their networks, including the bulk posting or transmission of information through automated programmes or bypass access such as Virtual Private Networks (VPNs). Providers must also delete or block the distribution of content generated through such conduct. The Bill further mandates technical measures to display the user’s country of access and whether bypass access was used. Providers must automatically record and retain data concerning the operation and management of these measures for a period prescribed by Presidential Decree, and such data may be inspected by the Minister of Science and ICT or the Korea Communications Commission. The amendment would enter into force one year after promulgation.