Seoul: South Korea's nominee for its media watchdog has announced the potential consideration of a social media ban for teenagers. Kim Jong-cheol, the nominee for the Korea Media Communications Commission, expressed this possibility during his parliamentary confirmation hearing on Tuesday, highlighting the importance of youth protection as a primary responsibility.

According to Anadolu Agency, Kim Jong-cheol emphasized that the introduction of age restrictions on social media platforms is "absolutely necessary." He articulated his commitment to pursuing this task, acknowledging the rapidly increasing number of victims in the media and communications sector due to sophisticated AI technologies used in hacking and cyberterrorism.

Kim outlined his plans to enhance dispute resolution systems and reinforce the regulatory body's role in protecting users. He noted that criticism has been mounting regarding the weakening role of the regulator in safeguarding social media users. In addition, Kim proposed advancing the adoption of AI in the broadcasting and media industry to foster innovation and bolster global competitiveness.

The announcement comes after Australia became the first country to implement a social media ban for children under the age of 16 on December 10. Kim's proposal indicates a global trend towards increased regulation of social media use among teenagers.