Issue Focus

The Cultural, Sports, and Tourism Committee will launch its national audit on October 7, 2024, with a particular focus on the game rating system. Key sessions involving the Korea Creative Content Agency and the Game Rating and Administration Committee are set for October 17, followed by an in-depth review on October 24. Expected key witnesses include YouTuber Kim Sung-hoe, a critic of pre-screening regulations, and Professor Lee Seung-hoon from Anyang University's Game Content Department.
Witnesses are poised to critique the game rating system and challenge the pre-screening of games, arguing that it enforces disproportionate censorship compared to other media like films and television dramas. Kim Sung-hoe has been contesting the constitutionality of certain game industry laws since September, highlighting that only South Korea and China impose such strict regulations on adult games on platforms like Steam. His petition against these measures has amassed nearly 200,000 signatures, a historic milestone.
While the game rating system is set to be a major topic, other industry issues might be overshadowed during the audit. A gaming industry insider noted the limited scope of discussion, as other pressing issues, such as controversies surrounding the Korea Football Association, may divert attention from the gaming industry debate.