[단독] 혐오표현 토론회서 ‘부적절 표현’ 소동…인권위원 “의견 존중” 발언도 논란

A disturbance broke out during a National Human Rights Committee (Human Rights) sponsored debate on hate speech at the National Assembly, as a minority attendee verbally challenged discriminatory comments. The situation escalated when a Human Rights Committee Special Advisor stated, "All opinions must be respected," and the incident led to internal controversy.

According to a comprehensive report by the Chosun Ilbo, on May 9, a discussion titled "Preventing Hate Speech in Educational Settings: How Can We Do It?" was held in the 1st Committee Room of the National Assembly's House of Representatives. After the presentation and discussion concluded, one of the audience members made provocative remarks, such as "Reading about it for years doesn't make enlightenment hit you," and "They teach tolerance in schools these days."

These comments were deemed hate speech and inciting violence against sexual minorities. Some audience members protested, urging the speaker to provide evidence and explain their views. The speaker, who had previously disclosed their sexual minority status, left the room in tears after being confronted. The Human Rights Committee Advisor emphasized that such language is unacceptable in such settings and that the speaker's actions "failed to protect free speech."

The Special Advisor faced criticism for their response, with concerns raised about how their words might be perceived as legitimizing hate speech. The incident has sparked debate within the Human Rights Committee about how to address hate speech while respecting freedom of expression.