Wednesday, January 09, 2008

[The Chosun Ilbo, January 4 2007] The Shameless Gov’t Information Agency

Briefing the presidential Transition Committee on Thursday, the Government Information Agency claimed that its attempt to close down press rooms at government ministries and force reporters to move to a handful of briefing centers was “in line with global standards” even if its original purpose had lost luster by protests from the press. GIA officials claimed the measure was necessary to provide reporters with information and to make the process of disclosing information transparent.

It conceded that a hostile relationship had developed with the press over the measure, reducing its positive effect and making it difficult for the public to realize the need for the steps. But the GIA said its efforts to publicize state affairs had actually improved during the Roh Moo-hyun administration due to strengthened efforts to reach out to the public.

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Actually, not many people are interested in whether the GIA will continue to exist or not -- the press and the public believe the truth will prevail in the end. But fancy such an offer, after serving five years as the lapdog of a media-hostile president!

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