NIS Warns of Possible Influx of Foreign Disinformation on Middle East, Activates 24-Hour Response System

[Financial News] The National Intelligence Service (NIS) announced on the 10th that it is stepping up its response to the potential influx of foreign disinformation related to the situation in the Middle East. The agency believes that if such false information spreads domestically through social media and online communities, it could not only confuse the public but also damage the national interest.
In a press release, the NIS stated, "Foreign disinformation related to the situation in the Middle East could enter the country through various channels, causing confusion among the public and undermining our national interest."
The NIS explained that, under Article 4 of the National Intelligence Service Act, it is responsible for identifying, deterring, and blocking activities by foreign actors that run counter to national security and the national interest, and for taking protective measures for the public. In line with this mandate, the agency is currently working to identify and monitor both the content of disinformation and the channels through which it enters the country.
The NIS noted in particular that, amid the recent developments in the Middle East, opinion warfare is being waged using disinformation, including the spread of deepfake images and videos generated with Artificial Intelligence (AI). The agency believes that foreign disinformation targeting Korean companies and citizens could flow into the country at any time, and said it is strengthening related monitoring efforts.
When disinformation is detected, the NIS plans to quickly cooperate not only with relevant domestic agencies but also with intelligence services in friendly nations, in order to trace those behind it and block further dissemination.
The NIS also urged the public to actively report foreign-origin fake information, warning that such disinformation can undermine national security and have a negative impact on the national economy.
west@fnnews.com Seong Seok-woo Reporter