South Korean President Accuses Media of Spreading 'Fake News' Over AI Tax Revenue Proposal

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung accuses media of spreading misleading news about a proposed 'citizens' dividend' tied to AI sector's tax revenue. Controversial remarks from policy aide Kim Yong-beom spark stock market volatility, with calls for careful consideration and academic study before policy decisions.

In an escalating controversy, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has lashed out at the media, accusing them of distorting comments made by his policy aide about a proposed 'citizens' dividend' linked to excess tax revenue from the booming AI sector.

The uproar began after Lee's chief policy secretary, Kim Yong-beom, proposed addressing economic disparity with a plan to redistribute tax revenue garnered from the technology industry. This suggestion caused stock market fluctuations and alarmed foreign investors.

President Lee, in a firm defense of Kim, criticized media outlets for allegedly twisting Kim's words, asserting that fake news was being leveraged to sway public opinion and undermine democratic processes. Meanwhile, party leaders advised caution, urging that such proposals undergo thorough academic and public scrutiny before policy implementation.