SEOUL, Aug. 20 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung on Thursday vowed to root out the online circulation of illegally filmed sexual content, noting the government will also make efforts to tackle overseas-based platforms.

Lee made the remark in a social media post, noting that relevant agencies, including the gender ministry and the police, have prepared a comprehensive response plan against illegal websites carrying such content.

"Until now, the government has supported the removal of illegally filmed content upon request from victims," Lee said. "However, there were limits, as some websites ignored removal requests or continued their criminal activities by reuploading deleted videos on different websites."

"Now, we will change our approach. We will not stop at simply deleting posts but put an end to the structure that allows such crimes to be repeated," Lee said, noting the government will fundamentally shut down websites that distribute illegally filmed content.

Lee added there will be "no exceptions" and that the government will mobilize all available resources to hold those responsible strictly accountable.

"We will make sure that such shameless crimes seeking to profit by trampling on the dignity and personality of others can no longer gain a foothold in the Republic of Korea," Lee added, referring to South Korea's official name.

Earlier in the day, the government announced a set of measures, including allowing investigators to hack illegal websites to delete exploitative content and collect evidence.

colin@yna.co.kr

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