One thing that surprises foreigners in Korea is that a single review or comment can start as a criminal matter (police investigation), not a civil one. Here are the basics of legal risk in online expression.
Three key points
- Defamation can apply even if the statement is true
- Insults and slurs can be punished as 'contempt' (모욕)
- Online cases fall under the Network Act, so sentences and fines can be heavier
Penalty overview
Truthful-fact defamation carries up to 2 years or a 5-million-won fine, false statements are heavier, and insult is up to 1 year or a 2-million-won fine. This is not legal advice; if you receive a complaint or investigation notice, consult a Korean lawyer or the foreigner help line at 1345.
Basics of online defamation and expression risk for foreigners