북한 사이버 심리전의 실체와 대응방향

Abstract

While North Korea’s cyber attacks against South Korea are increasing rapidly, the internet based cyber psychological warfare by the North can have more insidious and damaging effect on South Korea and its people. The ways in which North Korea’s cyber-based psychological warfare is conducted are as follows: dissemination of misinformation, distortion or facts, manipulation of public opinion through internet media and creating hostile environment in the internet forums where debates take place. Unlike the tradition warfare, the cyber psychological warfare is most effective due to its power of instant and indiscriminate dissemination of information in light speed regardless of the nature of the news and contents. In particular, North Korea’s attempt at such activities could create high level of confusion and tension among the South Korean population. Under the circumstances, North Korea could afflict the damage, the level of which is only possible by major localized terror or surprise attacks. As the efforts to guard such actions by North Korea, South Korea should consider following options: increased security measures in media against misinformation campaign and provision of continuous education and training on the issue. As the ultimate measure, a temporary blocking of internet service should be considered as a viable option in the early stage of national crisis to maintain the public order and secure channel of communication for the government and military.