KOLs and civic responsibility in the digital age

With hundreds of thousands, even millions, of followers, every statement and action they take can create trends and have a powerful impact on the community. This widespread and rapid influence raises an urgent question about their civic responsibility.

KOL và trách nhiệm công dân trong kỷ nguyên số - Ảnh 1. — Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) have a significant advantage.

Initially, KOLs were simply opinion leaders, but in the context of globalization, their role has gone far beyond that. They have gradually become "unofficial representatives" of the nation. Today's youth turn to KOLs not only for entertainment but also to learn about their lifestyles, mindsets, and aspirations.

Therefore, the influence of KOLs is distinctly two-sided. On the one hand, many KOLs have leveraged their position to spread positive values such as: advocating for environmental protection, promoting reading culture, inspiring entrepreneurship, and sharing stories of kindness and humanity. These actions instill confidence and open up positive paths for the community.

However, conversely, many people have pursued short-term gains, leading to negative consequences. They advertise substandard products, spread misinformation, or use shocking tactics to attract attention. Such "slips of the tongue" or offensive behavior not only tarnish their personal image but also seriously erode public trust.

In the context of cross-border information dissemination, the behavior of KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) has a powerful impact on a nation's image on the global stage. They become effective "soft ambassadors," as each action, from art to sports, can represent a resilient, creative, and distinctive Vietnam, alongside legitimate diplomatic efforts.

To maximize the positive role and minimize the negative impact, the self-awareness of KOLs alone is not enough. We need a more synchronized and comprehensive mechanism, encompassing three main elements.

First, there needs to be guidance from society. Regulatory bodies and professional organizations should develop clear codes of conduct for influencers, similar to what many countries have done. These standards should not stifle creativity, but rather create a framework of reference for community responsibility.

Furthermore, the role of community oversight is extremely important. Followers need to become active "companions," daring to speak up and offer constructive criticism when their idols make mistakes, and readily spreading and supporting positive values. This feedback will motivate KOLs to be more careful in their actions.

Ultimately, the most decisive factor remains the inner growth of each KOL. To lead public opinion effectively, they need to continuously cultivate knowledge, refine their character, and remain vigilant against the temptations of fame and material wealth. The story of a travel influencer who shifted from focusing on views to telling stories about culture and history, and received greater support, is proof that when KOLs dare to live responsibly, they will receive lasting love and loyalty from the community.

In the context of a rapidly developing nation, KOLs (Key Opinion Leaders) can become a crucial resource, transforming national aspirations into action. A meaningful call to action or a positive act, when spread widely, can far surpass many costly propaganda campaigns. Ultimately, each KOL faces a choice: either chase fleeting fame or become a lasting beacon of light for the community. That choice is the answer to whether they want to be merely celebrities or responsible citizens committed to the future of their country.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/kol-va-trach-nhiem-cong-dan-trong-ky-nguyen-so-196250822210922546.htm