A 36-year-old content creator known for running the channel “Taldeok Sooyongso” has again been sentenced to two years in prison, suspended for three years, by the Incheon District Court for spreading false and damaging videos about K-pop star Jang Wonyoung of girl group IVE and six other celebrities. According to Yonhap News, the court also ordered the creator to pay 210 million KRW (around 13 lakh INR) in fines and serve 120 hours of community service. This ruling upholds the first trial verdict, holding the accused accountable for severe defamation under South Korea’s Information and Communications Network Act.
A History of Malicious Misinformation
Between October 2021 and June 2023, the creator posted 23 videos falsely accusing Jang Wonyoung of jealousy that sabotaged a fellow trainee’s debut, as well as baseless rumors suggesting plastic surgery and involvement in illicit activities. Other female idols were also targeted with disparaging videos attacking their appearances. Using voice distortion and intricate video edits, the content was monetized through a paid membership system, generating over 250 million KRW (about 15 lakh INR) in illicit profits.
Legal Pushback and Damages
Apart from the criminal case, Jang Wonyoung and her agency Starship Entertainment successfully won civil suits against the content creator, securing damages amounting to tens of millions of KRW. The judicial decisions highlight the court’s firm stance against online slander and fake news in the South Korean entertainment industry. Despite the creator’s claims attempting to justify their actions, the court emphasized the irreparable harm such malicious videos inflicted on public figures’ reputations.
Broader Implications for Online Defamation
This high-profile case sheds light on the growing issue of digital defamation and the vital need for stricter enforcement of laws protecting celebrities from fabricated content. It serves as a critical warning to content creators leveraging false information for profit, reaffirming that online defamatory actions bear serious consequences both legally and financially in the digital age.
