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[Alpha Biz= Paul Lee] According to the Korea Journalists Association Press (기자협회보), several South Korean media organizations have recently deleted or modified articles covering a 2021 drunk-driving incident involving the eldest son of Hyundai Motor Group Chairman Chung Eui-sun, prompting internal scrutiny and journalist criticism.
The incident occurred in July 2021, when the chairman’s son, referred to as A, collided with a guardrail while driving under the influence. The court issued a summary fine of KRW 9 million in September 2021, which was widely reported at the time.
Between September and October 2025, articles reporting the incident were either removed or had their headlines altered. News organizations that deleted content included Newsis, Segye Ilbo, Yonhap News TV, SBS, and YTN. Outlets that modified headlines included News1, Seoul Shinmun, Yonhap News, Hankyoreh, Hankook Ilbo, and CBS. Changes included anonymizing references to Hyundai as “H Group” or “major conglomerate,” and replacing the phrase “eldest son” with “child.”
Most deletions and modifications reportedly occurred without consultation with the original reporters. Only Segye Ilbo and CBS sought reporter permission; in other cases, editorial or digital departments acted unilaterally. Journalists have expressed concern over transparency and editorial process, calling for measures to prevent recurrence.
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In response, several media executives have issued apologies and restored deleted articles or original headlines. SBS, Yonhap News TV, Hankyoreh, Hankook Ilbo, and Yonhap News reversed prior changes. Others, including YTN, Seoul Shinmun, and News1, have not yet taken restorative action.
The Korea Journalists Association Press reports that some outlets are implementing new guidelines to ensure newsroom consultation on article modifications, aiming to prevent similar situations in the future.
Alphabiz Reporter Paul Lee(hoondork1977@alphabiz.co.kr)
