Distorted Democracy and Freedom of the Press under Capitalism
Dr. Eun-Suk SA

Abstract
This study examines the issue of standards of freedom of the press in democracy. Freedom of the press should benefit citizens in democratic societies, yet historically, the press has mainly served dominant group interests that are based on capital and power. The problem of serving special interests and collusion exists globally. It examines how well the principle of press freedom operates in democratic societies with a focus on a newly democratic nation. Combining analysis of theories of press freedom with the examination of empirical data three conclusions are drawn: firstly, freedom of the press has not properly worked in democracy especially non- Western countries. Secondly, democracy is understood widely as the best political system but it can be easily corrupted. Next, freedom of the press should act for citizens but it has been really belonged to elite groups. These three issues are crucial to understanding how well press freedom operates in democratic societies.

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