A South Korean research report indicates that Chinese netizens are systematically posting negative comments on news and posts related to industries where South Korea and China are in competition. These comments primarily disparage Korean products while praising Chinese ones, and this trend is increasing.

The report, titled “Cognitive Warfare in Korea-China Competitive Industries,” was released by a research team led by professors Kim Eun-young and Hong Seok-hoon. They analyzed comments on platforms like NAVER, YouTube, and NATE from July 2023 to August 2024.

The team identified 77 suspected Chinese accounts on NAVER, organized into two groups coordinated by core users. Similar negative comments have appeared in competitive sectors like electric vehicles and smartphones for several years, with increasing frequency recently.

The report categorizes these manipulative behaviors into three types: dismay, divide, and dismiss. Examples include comments suggesting the superiority of Chinese cars over Hyundai, or claiming that the U.S. will betray South Korea.

The researchers believe the 77 NAVER accounts are just the tip of the iceberg, with 239 similar accounts found on YouTube posting even more frequently. They call for establishing a database and analysis mechanism to counter this new form of cognitive warfare and urge the government to develop countermeasures.

Source: Yonhap News Agency, September 29, 2024
https://cn.yna.co.kr/view/ACK20240929000800881?section=china-relationship/index

China has unveiled its latest move in the realm of cybersecurity with the publication of the “Network Data Security Management Regulations.” Set to take effect on January 1st next year, these regulations signify a significant escalation in the government’s approach to data security oversight.

The new rules, signed into order by Premier Li Qiang, establish a comprehensive framework for managing network data security. They emphasize a system of data classification and graded protection while strictly prohibiting illegal data processing. Under these regulations, network data processors are required to implement robust security management systems and fulfill obligations related to risk reporting and security incident handling.

In a notable shift from the 2021 draft, the current version has softened its stance on certain controversial elements. The previously proposed comprehensive approval mechanism for data exports has been replaced with more flexible conditions for cross-border data transmission. Additionally, the regulations have streamlined algorithm review requirements for platforms, aiming to enhance transparency and social responsibility standards.

Personal information protection receives particular attention in the new regulations. They outline specific measures governing the use of automated collection technologies and clearly define the responsibilities of network data processors in ensuring lawful collection and processing of personal information.

For cross-border data transfers, the regulations stipulate that such transfers must comply with international treaties and agreements to which China is a party. Importantly, data not categorized as “important” will not require cross-border security assessments.

Despite these adjustments, concerns persist among foreign businesses operating in China. While some controversial elements have been removed, uncertainties remain regarding the practical implementation of these regulations. Foreign companies continue to face strict data control measures, as exemplified by Apple’s requirement to store Chinese user data on servers in Guizhou.

As China’s digital economy continues to grow, these new regulations underscore the government’s commitment to maintaining a firm grip on data security while attempting to balance domestic control with international business practices.

Source: Radio Free Asia, October 1, 2024
https://www.rfa.org/mandarin/yataibaodao/meiti/jw-china-online-data-security-management-regulations-10012024102348.html

German newspaper Süddeutsche Zeitung argues that Europe must develop its own robust industrial policy in response to US actions and Chinese market strategies. The US has preemptively banned Chinese components and software in smart connected cars, and Europe should follow suit to avoid dependence on China and protect against product dumping.

Unlike US automakers who have largely abandoned the Chinese market, German manufacturers like Volkswagen, Mercedes, and BMW heavily rely on it. This dependency makes them vulnerable to potential retaliation from Beijing. Chinese firms are also investing billions in battery and car factories in Europe, making it costly for Europeans to suddenly exclude Chinese products.

The article warns that the US may pressure its allies to adopt similar restrictive measures, especially if Trump returns to power. Meanwhile, China is reportedly instructing its companies to avoid transferring technology to local firms when entering the European market, potentially creating a dependency similar to that in the solar energy sector.

The EU has begun developing strategies to reduce dependence and subsidize strategic industries like chips and batteries. It has also launched anti-dumping investigations. The article concludes by urging EU member states, particularly Germany, to actively support a unified EU strategy rather than pursuing individual, potentially conflicting policies.

Source: Deutsche Welle, September 28, 2024
https://p.dw.com/p/4lC1T

The stabbing death of a Japanese schoolboy in Shenzhen sparked controversy in China. Two Chinese scholars, Zhao Hong and Chen Bi, published an article condemning violence under the guise of “patriotism” and urging people to speak up against such acts. However, their article was quickly deleted.

The scholars drew parallels to a similar attack on a Japanese school bus in Suzhou less than three months prior. They argued that attributing these killings to “frenzied populism” or “irrational hate education” does not justify or excuse such barbaric acts.

The article emphasized that defending savagery and brutality desecrates civilization and life. It called for severe punishment of violent crimes and criticized silence as tacit approval of violence and disregard for victims.

The authors expressed concern over the misuse of “patriotism” to justify crimes, from harassing people wearing kimonos to attacking innocent children. They stressed that remembering historical Japanese aggression should not lead to more killings and brutality.

The article advocated for not tolerating violent propaganda under the banner of patriotism and warned against using hatred to commemorate history. It urged people to maintain common sense and conscience as weapons to defend civilization.

The scholars noted the current hostile online environment in China towards Japan and the difficulty in expressing dissenting views. They concluded by stating that remaining silent in the face of such tragedy makes everyone complicit.

Source: Central News Agency (Taiwan), September 23, 2024
https://www.cna.com.tw/news/acn/202409230197.aspx

The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) uses its “Internet Army” to publish articles promoting its political positions. A recent article posted on Chinese platform Net Ease stated that a Chinese Frigate ship had recently intimidated Malaysia.

“There’s been another incident in the South China Sea, but this time it’s not the Philippines — it’s Malaysia.” The article stated that Malaysia had been “secretly engaged in ‘stealing oil’ in the South China Sea.”

“However, in Chinese waters, you can’t just do as you please,” the article said. “The People’s Liberation Army responded swiftly, dispatching a 1,000-ton 053H3-class frigate and Coast Guard vessels to the area, with the frigate’s main guns on display. This was China’s practical response: any actions that infringe on China’s rights in the South China Sea will be met with a strong counterattack.”

Source: Net Ease, September 19, 2024
https://www.163.com/dy/article/JCDVNPIR05568UZV.html