The turbulent century-long journey of South Korea's most influential and controversial newspaper
In short: Founded in 1920, The Chosun Ilbo is a cornerstone of South Korean media. Yet, its history is marked by colonial-era suppression, accusations of collaboration, and intense political polarization. From surviving Japanese censorship to modern-day legal scandals, this newspaper remains a powerful, if deeply divisive, voice in the national discourse.
Established on 5 March 1920, The Chosun Ilbo emerged as a significant voice in Korean journalism. Its early years were defined by instability; financial disputes with its backers led to leadership changes within months, and the paper was forced into a hiatus by April 1921. Under Japanese colonial rule, the publication faced relentless pressure, enduring four suspensions and over five hundred instances of issue confiscation before 1932. By July 1940, the Japanese government officially shuttered the paper, a silence that lasted until Korea gained independence in 1945.
The newspaper’s legacy is heavily contested. Critics frequently point to its editorial history during the colonial period, specifically articles between 1938 and 1940 that appeared to glorify the Japanese Imperial House. This led to state-led investigations in 2005 regarding potential collaboration. Furthermore, the paper’s support for South Korea's military dictatorships until 1987 and its staunch opposition to the Sunshine Policy toward North Korea have made it a lightning rod for criticism. International observers and domestic detractors have questioned the accuracy of its reporting, notably after a 2019 claim regarding the execution of a North Korean diplomat proved false when the official appeared in public shortly after.
Legal and ethical controversies have also shadowed the paper’s leadership. In 2002, Chairman Bang Sang-hoon faced indictment for tax evasion and embezzlement. Following years of legal proceedings, the Supreme Court eventually handed down a three-year prison sentence with a four-year suspension, alongside a 2.5 billion won fine. Despite these challenges, the outlet remains a dominant force, boasting a circulation exceeding 1.8 million. It continues to modernize, having transitioned from traditional vertical, right-to-left text to a standard horizontal format in 1999, while maintaining its influence through a diverse array of digital and print subsidiaries.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: The Chosun Ilbo
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