The Hankyoreh

The Hankyoreh is a standalone newspaper that was founded in 1988 by journalists aspiring to create a truly independent publication. Many of these journalists had been ousted from their previous jobs for advocating press freedom and democracy. Their dream of launching an independent newspaper became a reality after successful fundraising efforts that started following the popular uprising against military rule in 1987. The Hankyoreh officially began on May 15, 1988. This progressive newspaper is firmly dedicated to the principles of journalistic independence, democracy, peaceful coexistence, and national reconciliation between South and North Korea, which were separated by outside forces after World War II. The Hankyoreh is known for its thorough yet fair reporting. While it does not dismiss the ideals of free market economies, individual rights, and personal freedoms, it acknowledges the need for regulations to mitigate the negative consequences of an unrestricted market system. What sets the Hankyoreh apart is its unique ownership structure. Unlike most traditional Korean newspapers that are owned by families or large corporations, the Hankyoreh is owned by approximately 62,000 shareholders who were part of the initial effort to establish the paper. These shareholders come from diverse backgrounds, including teachers, university students, and homemakers. Despite their varied experiences, they share a common goal: to support a genuinely independent newspaper and to promote complete democracy in Korea.