Digital technologies are bringing about extensive and fundamental changes, revolutionizing the structures and practices of individuals, society, and industry.

The digital transformation, often called the Fourth Industrial Revolution, has provided numerous conveniences and opportunities across personal lives and industries

 through technological convenience and power. However, it has simultaneously cast new side effects and shadows.

Pathological phenomena unique to the information society are intensifying, including privacy violations, the spread of misinformation, cyberbullying, algorithmic discrimination, and bias. 

Concerns are also growing about deepening polarization, increasing job insecurity, and crises in public opinion and democracy.

New global approaches to address the adverse effects of digital technology are being actively explored. 

Accordingly, social discussions and regulatory measures for technologies and Big Tech companies that threaten community order and values are gaining momentum.

There are no quick and efficient solutions to the pathological phenomena of digital society. The development of artificial intelligence, platform industries, and algorithmic technologies requires increasingly complex and multi-layered approaches to solving new social problems. This underscores the growing need for effective and flexible new social contracts and governance suitable for the digital society.

We must find a balance that protects individuals and society without hindering creativity and technological innovation in the digital environment.

The Hankyoreh Human and Digital Forum, believing that only human-centered technology can enable individuals, society, and industry to prosper together, aims to be a platform for discussion and exploration to develop technology in a more humane way and achieve innovation in the digital world.