The woman, surnamed Park, is known for running a YouTube channel called Sojang, which spreads baseless rumors and false information about many Korean celebrities, resulting in damage to the stars' reputations.
According to Dispatch, on October 23, the Seoul Central District Court's Criminal Division No. 11 held a trial for YouTuber Sojang. She was prosecuted for defamation and insult under the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection.
The prosecution has requested a four-year prison sentence and compensation of 211,420,152 won for Sojang.
“She insulted the victims five times and actively posted false information that damaged their reputation,” the prosecutor said.
The prosecution further stressed that Ms. Park operated a paid membership service, with videos targeting the victims' appearance, personality and romantic relationships.
Sojang's lawyer said: "We admit the charges. However, she acted recklessly but not for the purpose of making a profit. The defendant is currently actively volunteering and receiving psychological treatment.
We are working to reach an agreement with the victim. We tried to mediate in civil court, but had difficulty reaching an agreement. We will try to reach a final agreement."
Previously, Sojang was prosecuted for defaming 7 people, including Jang Won Young (IVE), Suho (EXO), Karina (aespa)... by posting false videos on YouTube 23 times from October 2021 to June last year.
Sojang's YouTube channel has around 60,000 subscribers. The YouTuber has earned a total of 250 million won from her videos in 2 years.
Regarding this, Jang Won Jang filed a lawsuit against Sojang in January. The court ruled in favor of the plaintiff and ordered Sojang to pay 100 million won in compensation to Jang Won Young.
BTS's V and Jungkook also filed a lawsuit against Sojang in March, demanding 90 million won in damages.
Last month, Sojang was sentenced to a fine of 10 million won for defaming singer Kang Daniel.
The next sentencing date for YouTuber Sojang is set for December 18.
