Bangkok – On September 5, 2025, Director-General of the Department of Information and MFA Spokesperson, Mr. Nikorndej Balankura, engaged in a crucial dialogue with Mr. Lee Jaewoong, Republic of Korea’s MFA Spokesperson and Deputy Minister for Public Affairs. The meeting, held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, focused on collaborative strategies to combat the escalating threat of disinformation and advance robust strategic communications in the digital age. This initiative underscores a growing recognition among Southeast Asian nations of the sophisticated and increasingly targeted nature of information warfare and its implications for foreign policy stability.
The primary objective of the discussions centered on sharing best practices regarding managing public narratives, particularly concerning potential foreign interference attempts. Both countries have recently experienced a surge in the dissemination of fabricated stories and manipulated media intended to influence public opinion and sow discord within their respective societies. This trend, exacerbated by advancements in artificial intelligence and social media algorithms, presents a significant challenge to traditional diplomatic efforts and national security interests. The core message emphasized the need for proactive and coordinated responses, moving beyond reactive damage control to a strategic, preventative approach.
Historical context is critical here. The proliferation of misinformation isn’t a new phenomenon, but the speed and scale at which it now spreads represents a tectonic shift. Previous instances of propaganda, such as the Cold War’s Soviet disinformation campaigns or the rise of nationalist narratives in Europe, pale in comparison to the decentralized, multifaceted nature of contemporary online manipulation. The Korean Peninsula’s history of geopolitical tensions and ongoing diplomatic challenges has further intensified the urgency of this issue. The current geopolitical climate – characterized by great power competition, regional instability, and a heightened risk of cyberattacks – significantly amplifies the potential for disinformation campaigns to destabilize international relations.
Key stakeholders involved extend beyond the two spokespersons. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand has consistently maintained open dialogue with diplomatic partners worldwide, recognizing the need for knowledge sharing and coordinated action. The South Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs similarly demonstrates a proactive approach to this problem. Moreover, several regional think tanks, including the Institute for Strategic Studies in Bangkok and the Korea Institute for National Policy, have been studying the dynamics of information warfare and recommending strategies for governments and international organizations. “The challenge isn’t simply identifying misinformation; it’s understanding the motivations behind it and developing countermeasures that are both effective and legally defensible,” stated Dr. Anya Sharma, a specialist in digital diplomacy at the Thai Institute of International Affairs, recently. “Simply banning content is often counterproductive and can further fuel distrust.”
Recent developments provide valuable context. Over the past six months, Thailand has experienced a notable increase in coordinated disinformation campaigns targeting domestic political discourse, often originating from external actors attempting to capitalize on existing social divisions. Simultaneously, South Korea has been grappling with sophisticated cyberattacks designed to undermine public trust in its government and critical infrastructure. These events demonstrate the escalating stakes and the urgent need for sophisticated, multi-layered strategies. “We’re seeing a shift from broad propaganda to highly targeted attacks,” explained Mr. Lee Jaewoong during a press briefing following the meeting. “The ability to rapidly identify and debunk false narratives, coupled with a clear and consistent message of national resilience, is paramount.”
Looking ahead, the short-term impact of this collaboration is anticipated to be the establishment of a joint working group to share intelligence, develop joint communication strategies, and potentially coordinate responses to specific disinformation threats. In the longer term (5-10 years), a sustained partnership could lead to the development of a regional framework for combating disinformation, incorporating elements of digital literacy programs, media regulation, and international cooperation. However, the challenge remains significant. The continued evolution of technology – particularly the rise of generative AI – will demand constant adaptation and innovation. A successful alliance requires not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of cultural contexts and political dynamics. The focus, as both countries recognize, is on building public trust and fostering a resilient information ecosystem capable of withstanding the relentless assault of disinformation. “The fight for truth is a continuous one,” concluded Dr. Sharma, “and requires vigilance, collaboration, and a unwavering commitment to democratic values.”