Asia Restricts Influencers on Sensitive Topics

As social media influencers gain unprecedented influence over public discourse and political opinions, Asian countries are taking decisive action to prevent the spread of misinformation. Both China and South Korea have introduced regulatory measures targeting creators who discuss sensitive topics without proper expertise.

China Enforces Professional Qualification Requirements

China’s Cyberspace Administration is now strictly enforcing existing regulations that require creators discussing specialized topics to possess relevant professional licenses, degrees, or certificates. The rule, originally introduced in 2022 as part of the “Conduct for Online Broadcasters” documentation, applies to high-expertise fields including medicine, finance, law, and education. Violators face fines up to $14,000 USD, marking a significant enforcement shift toward eliminating ill-informed but influential voices from spreading false information.

South Korea Targets Foreign Creators Spreading Hateful Content

South Korea is considering new regulations that would restrict foreigners who post derogatory comments about the nation from entering the country. The proposal follows high-profile cases involving foreign influencers, including American streamer Johnny Somali, who was indicted for disruptive behavior, and Debo-chan, a YouTuber under investigation for posting false claims about mutilated bodies in Korea.

These Asian approaches contrast sharply with U.S. policy, where the current administration is loosening content restrictions and elevating influential podcasters to government positions. While free speech remains fundamental to democracies, the regulatory differences highlight growing concerns about unqualified voices spreading harmful misinformation that influences public opinion and political outcomes.