Exploring the Risks of Digital Propaganda and Responses through the LeePark School Controversy

LeePark School Incident: Allegations of Being a Disguised Educational Institution

"LeePark School" was ostensibly an online organization that claimed to be an educational and research institution, but there are growing suspicions that it may have been involved in politically motivated propaganda activities. As evidence has emerged linking numerous fake accounts and bots to this organization, claims have surfaced that it influenced public opinion by reinforcing specific ideologies or suppressing opposing views. Since a full clarification of the facts has yet to be achieved, it is premature to definitively state that this incident represents a coordinated manipulation effort by a particular group or faction. However, through various circumstances and testimonies, it has been suggested that Rebox School may be part of an organized network that goes beyond a mere private gathering. In particular, suspicions regarding potential collusion among certain political circles, civil groups, and educational institutions echo past instances of comment manipulation by military intelligence agencies, revealing the enduring structural issues of public opinion manipulation in our society. The possibility that this alleged manipulation incident may have influenced policy decisions, social conflicts, and even elections raises significant concerns about the integrity of democratic order.

The Evolution of Public Opinion Manipulation: The Ghost Army Created by Technology

Manipulation of public opinion is not a new phenomenon. However, the advancement of digital technology has made this longstanding issue much more sophisticated and covert. In the past, traditional media such as flyers, broadcasts, and newspapers were the tools of manipulation, but now social media, portal sites, and online communities have taken their place. In particular, 'manipulated comments', 'fake accounts', and 'AI-based bots' have emerged as new weapons that facilitate extensive opinion formation with minimal resources. This manipulation is not a one-off occurrence, but is organized and operated under a clear plan, which can be understood in three main phases: the planning and organization of the manipulating forces, the large-scale dissemination of comments and content through automated tools, and the repeated exposure and reinforcement of distorted messages. As a result, what should naturally be a public discourse becomes intertwined in an artificial flow, leaving ordinary citizens struggling to distinguish between what is real and what is fake.

Structural Vulnerabilities of Digital Platforms

The background that enables opinion manipulation lies in the structural flaws of online platforms. Typical issues include the inadequacy of real-name verification, the opacity of algorithms, and a lack of post facto response to manipulation activities. There are many cases where platform companies fail to balance their profitability and political neutrality, often responding slowly or neglecting fake accounts and false information. Particularly recently, artificial intelligence technology has been creating 'deepfake' content, further blurring the line between fact and fiction. In such situations, simple self-regulatory efforts are insufficient, highlighting the need for stricter accountability for platform operators and the necessity of public intervention.

Systemic Limitations: Regulations Exist, but Effectiveness is Absent

Current laws regulate some acts of opinion manipulation, but they fail to adequately respond to collective and sophisticated manipulations. The Telecommunications Act, the Information and Communications Network Act, and the Public Official Election Act cover partial regulations, but the definition of "manipulation" itself is ambiguous, and the legal accountability of the responsible parties is unclear. Furthermore, while the methods of manipulation are increasingly concealed and technologically advanced, laws and regulations remain stuck in the past. As a result, many manipulative acts evade legal scrutiny or fall into gaps in punishment. What is needed now is clear and comprehensive legislation, such as an "Anti-Manipulation and Punishment Law". It is essential to define the scope and parties involved in manipulation and to establish a legal foundation that holds both platforms and manipulative forces accountable.

Multilayered Approach for Solutions

This issue cannot be resolved within a single domain. A multi-layered approach is required as follows: Legal system reform: Clearly define the types and entities of misinformation manipulation and establish legislation that allows for substantial penalties Strengthening platform responsibility: Building technical defenses such as ensuring algorithm transparency, enhancing user verification, and introducing automatic monitoring systems Establishing a citizen monitoring system and real-time response network: Operating a permanent monitoring body in cooperation with government, platforms, and civil society Expanding media literacy education: Strengthening education so that citizens can judge the authenticity of information and detect manipulation International cooperation: As misinformation techniques transcend borders, international collaboration and the establishment of norms are essential.

Conclusion: The First Step Toward a Transparent Public Forum

The Rebox School incident is not just a simple happening, but a symbol of the crisis of democracy that our society faces. Manipulation of public opinion has evolved into a complex issue that cannot be resolved without technical, structural, and social responses. However, a crisis is also an opportunity. Now is the time for citizens, the government, and platforms to fulfill their responsibilities and restore a 'trustworthy public forum.' The distribution of unmanipulated information, a transparent culture of discussion, and a civil society based on critical thinking will be the cornerstone of a healthy democracy.