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South Korea's Court System Struggles with Outdated ActiveX Technology

Users grapple with an obsolete and insecure online service as frustrations rise South Korea's court registry office's online service system continues to frustrate users due to its reliance on the outdated ActiveX technology. The technology has been widely criticized for its security vulnerabilities and incompatibility with modern web browsers. While Microsoft stopped supporting Internet Explorer, which is required to use ActiveX, last year, the South Korean court system has yet to adopt an upda

By Maru Kim
Mar 27, 2023
Updated: Feb 7, 2025
2 min read
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South Korea's Court System Struggles with Outdated ActiveX Technology

Users grapple with an obsolete and insecure online service as frustrations rise

South Korea's court registry office's online service system continues to frustrate users due to its reliance on the outdated ActiveX technology. The technology has been widely criticized for its security vulnerabilities and incompatibility with modern web browsers. While Microsoft stopped supporting Internet Explorer, which is required to use ActiveX, last year, the South Korean court system has yet to adopt an updated solution.

Forced to restart their computers multiple times and make complicated settings adjustments, users attempting to register through the court computer system face potential security risks. Despite these concerns and the availability of more secure, modern alternatives, the court system remains tied to antiquated ActiveX technology.

This issue is especially noticeable when compared to the user-friendly online systems utilized by South Korea's legislative and executive branches. Both the National Assembly's bill information system and the e-government system provide users with easy access to detailed information and various documents. Critics argue that the judicial system is lagging behind, often neglecting the needs and preferences of its users.

Recent studies and papers have highlighted the challenges posed by outdated technology within judicial systems worldwide, urging governments to invest in more secure and efficient solutions. As South Korea's court system continues to struggle with ActiveX, it is crucial for the country to prioritize modernization to better serve the needs of its citizens and maintain a secure online environment.

Despite being a global technology leader, South Korea struggles with antiquated technology within its courts

South Korea is well-known for its advanced technology and innovative IT solutions, often outpacing many other countries in terms of digital infrastructure and connectivity. However, this reputation is challenged when it comes to the nation's judicial system, which still relies on outdated technology.

The country's court registry office's online service system, for example, continues to use the obsolete ActiveX technology, causing frustration among users who struggle to access and view documents on the Supreme Court Registry's website. Despite Microsoft ceasing support for Internet Explorer last year, the court system still requires the use of this old browser, exposing users to potential security risks.

This reliance on outdated technology stands in stark contrast to South Korea's legislative and executive branches, which have embraced user-friendly online systems that provide easy access to information and documents. The National Assembly's bill information system and the e-government system are prime examples of how modern technology can enhance efficiency and transparency.

Experts and critics have urged South Korea to invest in more secure and efficient solutions to bring its judicial system in line with the nation's IT prowess. By upgrading the technology used within its courts, the country can ensure that all branches of government benefit from its strong technological foundation and better serve its citizens.

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