｜Chapter 4｜ Reactions and Considerations towards Hate Speech 1. Reactions towards Hate Speech As discussed in Chapter 3, hate speech is a serious social evil, as it negates human dignity and value, violates personal rights, distorts or negates democracy, and damages social integration. Many democratic countries that value human rights have recognized the seriousness of hate speech and have defined measures against it. Hate speech has also been examined in Korea by the state and various organizations in society due to rising awareness about this problem. Although critics state that responses to hate speech conflict with the freedom of expression, freedom of expression is not an absolute or inviolable right. Democratic countries limit expressions that violate the rights or dignity of others or hinder public order or public health. If hate speech violates democracy or human rights, which are the values under our Constitutional Act, it is possible to partially limit hate speech. However, reactions should be cautious, considering the importance and characteristics of the freedom of expression. It is important to note that responses to hate speech should not only be limited to direct policies against hate speech. The problem of hate speech is related to hatred, discrimination, or hate crimes, and hate speech is a type of discrimination. This is why reactions to hate speech should be considered within comprehensive measures against discrimination. As such, the National Human Rights Commission of Korea founded the “Group for Measures towards Hatred and Discrimination” and the “Special Committee for Hatred and Discrimination” in 2019. 38