The nominee to head the newly launched media watchdog pledged to consider banning social media for children. 

At a parliamentary confirmation hearing on Tuesday, Kim Jong-cheol, the nominee for chair of the Korea Media and Communications Commission (KMCC), said a policy similar to Australia's ban on social media for children younger than 16 was necessary.

He said protecting children is a key policy goal that he will strive to achieve. 

Kim also promised zero tolerance for fabricated information and to streamline regulations of the broadcasting and media industries.

The nominee said he would counter the spread of false information that threatens human dignity and democratic order.

He said he would have zero tolerance for illegal information concerning drugs and content produced through sexual exploitation.

Kim vowed to strike a balance between regulation and promotion and to improve unnecessary or outdated legislation.