Prime Minister Kim Min-seok vowed to take stern action against the spread of fake news related to the recent Middle East situation.
"We will respond firmly to the distribution of fake news that stokes anxiety," Kim said at the third ministerial meeting on the Middle East situation held at the Government Complex Seoul on Monday.
"Above all, accurate information is crucial at this time, and sentiment is important to the economy," the prime minister said. "We will use all available means, including criminal prosecution, to crack down on fake news designed to unsettle public sentiment, harm the economy, or seek illicit gains during this period."
Kim also urged the media to exercise caution. "Rather than recklessly reporting unverified and uncertain information, thorough fact-based reporting and fact-checking serve the national interest and the public," he said.
During the meeting, Kim received briefings from each ministry and discussed response measures. He instructed economic authorities to "strengthen monitoring of financial markets, implement necessary stabilization measures, and ensure full support for businesses by identifying difficulties, preparing assistance packages, and providing guidance on available support."
"Act preemptively before companies make requests," Kim emphasized.
He also asked the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy and the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries to address the safety of Korean vessels and crew members, as well as legal support for cost-sharing arrangements, in addition to energy supply management.
"The government is preparing for all possible scenarios," Kim said. "We will neither stand idly by nor overreact. The public has no reason to be alarmed."