S. Korean portal suspends trending topics to avoid manipulation


People walk beneath posters for South Korea's upcoming general elections scheduled to be held on April 15 in Seoul. Naver said in a statement it had suspended trends temporarily – the first time it has done so – to 'prepare for the possibility of an issue that can affect impartiality', with the South holding legislative elections on April 15. — AFP

SEOUL: South Korea's biggest Internet portal suspended its real-time "trending topics" feature on April 2 ahead of a general election this month, after controversy over politicians and their supporters trying to manipulate the results.

Accusations of misinformation and "fake news" have tainted political processes around the world and the hyper-wired South is known for its technological advances, with virtually every adult citizen owning a smartphone.

Subscribe now and get 30% off The Star Yearly Plan

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

RM 9.73/month

Billed as RM 9.73 for the 1st month, RM 13.90 thereafter.

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.63/month

Billed as RM 103.60 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.


Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
fake news

Others Also Read


All Headlines:

Want to listen to full audio?

Unlock unlimited access to enjoy personalise features on the TheStar.com.my

Already a subscriber? Log In