South Korea’s Presidential Office has introduced its own sign language interpretation service for press briefings, disaster updates, and public events. The initiative is designed to make official government information more accessible to the Deaf community. The new service echoes a scene from the Korean film When the Phone Rings, in which a woman is hired to interpret for a government spokesperson. Unlike the fiction, this step marks a real commitment by the presidential office to inclusion. The first live interpreted briefing featured President Lee alongside a representative from Vietnam’s Communist Party, and interpreters will now be present at future meetings as well. Officials said the service will reduce barriers and ensure Deaf citizens are not excluded from political life. Advocates describe it as a major milestone for the community. While television broadcasters have long provided interpreters, this is the first time the presidential office itself has guaranteed interpretation at briefings. South Korea has made other significant advances in accessibility. Korean Sign Language was recognized as an official language in 2016, funding for hearing devices has expanded, and video relay services have been developed. Still, many Deaf citizens emphasize the need for interpreters in schools, hospitals, and financial institutions to achieve full equality.

A Deaf man was robbed and assaulted at a gas station in Salt Lake City by Utah resident Demond Parsons, who later told police he attacked the man “for two beers.” Parsons also admitted he thought the victim was “faking” being Deaf. Police arrived during the fight after a bystander flagged them down. Officers found Parsons running nearby, sweaty and unsteady. A witness who tried to help the victim was also punched. Through an interpreter, police learned the Deaf man had gone to buy beer. When he did not respond to Parsons, Parsons repeatedly punched him in the mouth and shoulder. Parsons also admitted to attacking those who tried to intervene, including the witness and the interpreter. Parsons now faces charges of robbery, assault, and public intoxication. Advocates note that Deafness is an invisible disability often misunderstood. Some people wrongly assume a lack of verbal response is rude. The incident underscores the need for greater public awareness, better accessibility training, and involving Deaf people in creating solutions. Many crimes against Deaf individuals stem from ignorance and a lack of sensitivity.