South Korea Vows Crackdown on Fake News, All-Out Effort to Stabilize Prices

The South Korean government has announced a comprehensive plan to stabilize public livelihoods, focusing on a strict crackdown on misinformation and an all-out effort to curb rising consumer prices. The Ministry of Interior and Safety, in a press release dated April 9, 2026, stated that these measures are crucial amid external uncertainties stemming from the prolonged conflict in the Middle East.

The government has officially designated fake news, which it believes causes national disorder, as a criminal offense. Authorities are gearing up for rigorous enforcement against such misinformation. The National Police Agency is reportedly spearheading a dedicated task force, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy to strictly punish those found spreading false information that could disrupt governance and public trust.

Concurrently, the government is channeling significant administrative resources into stabilizing everyday living costs for ordinary citizens. This initiative aims to alleviate the burden of rising consumer prices, often referred to as “jangbaguni mulga” (grocery basket prices), which directly impact household budgets across the country. Field administration efforts will be concentrated to ensure tangible relief for citizens.

These dual efforts underscore the government’s commitment to safeguarding national stability and public welfare. By addressing both the spread of misinformation that could destabilize governance and the economic pressures faced by its citizens, Seoul aims to mitigate the domestic impact of global challenges and maintain public order.

Source: 행정안전부 보도자료 — Original Article (Korean)