Korean politicians mull ways to restrict convicted celebrities' TV appearances

Chairperson Lee Dong-kwan of the Korea Communications Commission [JOONGANG PHOTOS]

Korea Communications Commission Chairperson Lee Dong-kwan on Thursday said that he will review ways to legally restrict convicted celebrities' appearances on public broadcasts.

Lee, during the National Assembly's parliamentary audit with the Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee on the same day, was questioned by People Power Party Rep. Kim Yeung-shik, who claimed that the government should take a more proactive approach to protect the public from the possible adverse influences of lawbreaking celebrities.

"Broadcasting shall not encourage lewdness, decadence, violence, et cetera," Kim said, quoting Act 5 of the Broadcasting Act. “Some say that the restriction on celebrities charged with drug use infringes on their career freedom, but the government needs to consider its public responsibility."

Lee replied, "Currently, broadcasters like KBS and MBC have their own internal regulations [on delinquent celebrities], but we will review and implement more general measures."

The statements follow the recent string of celebrities — most notably actors Yoo Ah-in and Lee Sun-kyun — suspected of illegal drug use. Lee Sun-kyun was booked for questioning in relation to a drug case last week, and Yoo was indicted without detention on drug use charges, also last week.

Actor Yoo Ah-in answers questions from the local press at the Mapo Police Station on May 24. [NEWS1]

The current Broadcasting Act does not outline any regulations on restricting a person from appearing on public broadcasting, but public channels like KBS, MBC and SBS do have internal discussions that at times can lead to the suspension of a convicted celebrity from their shows.

There is no set period for the suspensions, however, and these celebrities may reappear on the channel whenever news dies down.

BY LEE JIAN [lee.jian@joongang.co.kr]