Editorial policy

Editorial standards

This document describes how HeSoul reports, edits, attributes and corrects the news we publish. It is reviewed at least once a year by the editor-in-chief and is binding on every desk and contributor.

1. Sourcing and verification

Every article is grounded in multiple independent published sources. We list those sources at the foot of the article so readers can audit our reporting. When sources disagree we say so in the article and explain why.

We do not publish anonymous quotes that cannot be corroborated by a second source. Reuters/AP/AFP/wire content is identified as such where used.

2. Editorial workflow

Stories are commissioned by the desk editor of record from public source materials. Editors review every draft, verify factual claims against the cited sources, remove anything not supported, and sign the article with their byline before publication.

We do not publish material that has not gone through this review. Articles that are re-edited or updated carry a separate dateModified stamp distinct from the original publication date.

3. Accuracy, fairness, balance

We strive for accuracy in every article. When we get it wrong we correct quickly and transparently — see our corrections policy. We aim to give a fair representation of competing claims and avoid loaded language. We separate news from comment.

4. Independence

HeSoul is independently owned by HeSoul Media. Editorial decisions are made on news judgment, not on commercial or political pressure. Sponsored content, where present, is clearly labelled. Editors must disclose any conflict of interest to the editor-in-chief before signing related coverage.

5. Diversity, ethics and bylines

Our newsroom is organised around language desks staffed by editors who reflect the regions they cover. Bylines on every article identify the editor of record. Our newsroom rejects discrimination on grounds of race, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability or political affiliation in both employment and coverage.

6. Privacy and minors

We do not publish private addresses, phone numbers or images of minors without consent. Victims of crime are not named where naming would re-victimise. Public figures' private lives are reported only when they intersect with their public role.

7. Right of reply

Anyone named in our coverage can request a clarification, correction or right of reply by writing to [email protected]. We log every such request and respond within 48 hours on weekdays.

8. Updates to this policy

This policy is reviewed annually and any change is logged in the page history. Last reviewed: 2026-05-02.