The Freedom Online Coalition (FOC) is pleased to welcome the Republic of Korea (ROK) as its 38th Member.
Over recent years, the ROK has been an active participant in digital technology-related discussions and debates, closely engaging in bilateral and multilateral cyber diplomacy. As a state party to several international treaties that relate to the FOC’s mission, the ROK has demonstrated a commitment to human rights online both at a domestic level and in key international forums and initiatives.
Domestically, the ROK has made significant progress in advancing connectivity for its citizens by prioritising strengthening telecommunications infrastructure. The ROK announced its “National Digital Strategy” to ensure that digital technology contributes to realising universal values including freedom and human rights. The strategy outlines the activities the ROK is undertaking to prioritise digital development and innovation, ranging from building Korean citizens’ digital capacity, to establishing the legal framework for digital economy and society, and leveraging digital innovation in governance.
The ROK is a signatory to a number of international conventions on human rights, including the International Covenant on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). The country has a track-record of actively engaging in various forums and human rights bodies, having supported efforts to bring attention to topics concerning human rights violations occurring globally. The ROK also serves in the Core Group that led the adoption of the landmark United Nations Human Rights Council resolution 41/11, “New and Emerging Digital Technologies and Human Rights” during the 41st and 47th Council sessions, and its renewal at the 53rd Council session in 2023.
As a Member of the Media Freedom Coalition and signatory to the Global Pledge on Media Freedom, the ROK is committed to promoting media freedom and the protection of journalists. The ROK’s commitment to intergovernmental and multistakeholder initiatives has been further demonstrated through its endorsement of the International Partnership on Information and Democracy, its engagement in the 2023 Summit for Democracy and its decision to host the 2024 Summit for Democracy.
Mr. Park Jin, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea, said:
“Given the rapid development of digital technology and its profound impact on our everyday lives, the international community must stay agile in harnessing its positive potential while addressing its risks. The Freedom Online Coalition has been playing an important role in steering international efforts towards this goal. The Republic of Korea is pleased to join the Coalition to support Internet freedom and protect human rights online.”
As the Coalition’s 38th Member, the ROK has pledged to uphold and advance the Coalition’s shared goals and values as stated in the FOC Founding Declaration, the Helsinki Declaration, the Ottawa Agenda, and other underpinning documents. As a Member of the FOC, the ROK will become an active participant in the Coalition’s activities, sub-entities, and diplomatic networks, collaborating with Members to promote the values of democracy and human rights online domestically and abroad.
The Coalition looks forward to working together with the ROK to advance Internet freedom and protect human rights, both online and offline.
To learn more about the FOC’s priorities and ongoing activities, visit www.freedomonlinecoalition.com/aims-and-priorities.
