Will South Korea's Presidential Office Introduce New Cybersecurity Measures Following Recent Hacking Incidents?
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Synopsis
In response to alarming hacking incidents at telecommunications and financial institutions, South Korea's Presidential Office is set to announce new cybersecurity measures. With user data at risk, the government aims to enhance security protocols and hold companies accountable, ensuring a more secure digital future.
Key Takeaways
- Presidential Office to announce new cybersecurity measures.
- Focus on preventing hacking incidents at telecom and financial sectors.
- Collaboration with key ministries and experts for a coordinated response.
- Nationwide inspections of telecom and financial firms planned.
- Importance of cybersecurity for South Korea's digital future emphasized.
Seoul, Sep 22 (NationPress) The Presidential Office of National Security announced on Monday its plans to implement comprehensive measures aimed at preventing future hacking incidents, in light of a series of security breaches affecting mobile carriers and a credit card issuer.
The office revealed it has been engaged in discussions with relevant ministry officials and cybersecurity experts, with an intention to unveil these measures later this month. This initiative follows hacking incidents involving SK Telecom Co., KT Corp., and Lotte Card Co..
"We regard the hacking incidents at telecom and financial institutions, as well as the harm inflicted on citizens, with utmost seriousness," the office stated. It emphasized collaboration with the Ministry of Science and ICT, the National Intelligence Service, and other authorities to formulate a coordinated response.
The government is also preparing to initiate nationwide inspections targeting major telecom and platform providers, as well as financial firms, while aiming to enhance protective measures for users in the face of security breaches.
In April, SK Telecom disclosed that the personal information of its entire user base might have been compromised during a cyberattack on its network servers. Meanwhile, KT, another mobile carrier, recently reported illegal micropayments affecting 362 subscribers.
Additionally, last month, the servers of Lotte Card were breached, jeopardizing the personal information of approximately 3 million customers, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Earlier on Thursday, President Lee urged for comprehensive measures to enhance digital security following the recent data breaches involving KT and Lotte Card.
During a meeting with senior aides, Lee emphasized the importance of holding private firms accountable while cautioning that the government must establish systematic defenses against increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks.
He remarked that without robust security, South Korea's aspirations to emerge as a significant global player in the digital and AI sectors could be likened to a "house of cards."
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the urgency surrounding cybersecurity in South Korea. The government's proactive stance in addressing recent hacking incidents reflects a commitment to safeguarding citizens' data. However, a balance must be struck between holding private entities accountable and enhancing governmental defenses against cyber threats.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What recent hacking incidents prompted the government's response?
Recent breaches at major telecom companies like SK Telecom and KT, along with a significant cyberattack on Lotte Card, have raised serious concerns regarding data security.
What will the new cybersecurity measures entail?
The measures are expected to include nationwide inspections of telecom and financial firms, alongside enhanced protective protocols for user data.
How is the government collaborating to address these incidents?
The Presidential Office is working with the Ministry of Science and ICT, the National Intelligence Service, and various experts to develop a coordinated response.
What impact could these breaches have on South Korea's digital ambitions?
Without robust cybersecurity, South Korea's goals in the digital and AI sectors could be jeopardized, likened to a 'house of cards'.
When will the new measures be announced?
The Presidential Office plans to unveil the comprehensive measures later this month.
