Page 266 - Culture Technology Communication

Internet Discourse 249

Table 2 illustrates the Kidnet movement reported by Chosun
Daily. Although Korean journalism usually emphasizes objectivity,
Chosun’s Kidnet is unique. Chosun attempts to mobilize a social
movement by eliminating journalistic objectivity altogether. Many
articles regarding Kidnet have no substantial information, but sim-
ply highlight positive elements supporting the Kidnet movement,
e.g., large numbers of reports concerning emotional reactions to and
praise of the Kidnet movement.
According to Table 2, financial and technological support by in-
dustry is most frequently reported—almost 20% of the total 175
articles. Chosun Daily encourages business to donate computer
hardware and software. Chosun, in return, advertises industrial
supporters on its regular news. Chosun Daily also holds many cere-
monial occasions as part of the Kidnet movement. Describing the
dissemination of the Internet and Kidnet ceremonies are the second
most frequently reported articles—18% and 16% of the total, respec-
tively. In order to encourage the Kidnet movement, Chosun organ-
izes volunteers and teachers’ groups. Articles related to volunteers
and teachers’ activities are the third largest reported issues. Also,
Chosun Daily stresses the international connections of the Kidnet
movement (9%). Chosun has frequently cited the Global Youth Net-
work (GYN) and claims that Kidnet is a part of the GYN movement.
According to these reports, Kidnet is a symbol of globalization and
international competitiveness.

Table 2
Kidnet Reports of Chosun Daily
Title Number
Program production 2
Simple informational reports 14
Industrial support 36
Citizens’ support 20
Teachers’ activity 9
International relations 14
General reaction 5
Internet dissemination 31
Public policy 8
Kidnet ceremony 28
Education 8
Others 0
TOTAL 175