(2nd LD) Ban on journalists joining election campaigns deemed unconstitutional: court

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SEOUL, June 30 (Yonhap) -- South Korea's Constitutional Court said Thursday the current law banning journalists from taking part in election campaigns is unconstitutional, signaling significant changes in reporters' involvement in political movements.

The current election law bans journalists from taking a part in election campaigns, with violators facing up to three years in jail or a fine not exceeding 6 million won (US$5,211).

The decision came after two progressive journalists, Kim O-joon, who heads political satire web ddanzi.com, and Choo Jin-woo of SisaIN magazine, asked the Constitutional Court to review the law, adding that the definition of a journalist is vague, and thus goes against "the principle of legality."

The Constitutional Court agreed with the petition in a seven-to-two vote.

"It is hard to define the scope of journalists, as there are various platforms including broadcasting, newspaper and new wire services," the court said, adding it is also vague to define which duties can be categorized as a journalists' work.

The court added there is no problem in journalists engaging in political campaigns individually, adding that the current regulations violates that constitutional freedom.

The court, however, said the ruling applies only to journalists, clarifying that media firms are still banned from openly expressing support for or objections to a particular party or politician.

The two journalists were earlier indicted for openly supporting left-leaning candidates in the 2012 general election, while leading a massive rally. Following the latest decision, the two journalists were immediately cleared of all charges.

colin@yna.co.kr
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