Prosecutors seek a four-year prison sentence for Park, the operator of the infamous YouTube channel 'Sojang,' often referred to as a “cyber wrecker.” Park admitted to all charges during the hearing, submitting a handwritten letter of apology, stating that she is "deeply reflecting" on her actions.
The Incheon District Court Criminal Division 11 held the final trial for Park, the operator of the YouTube channel, at 11:30 AM on October 23. Park was charged with defamation and insult under the Information and Communications Network Act.
Park appeared in court dressed in all black, wearing black glasses. When the judge asked if there were any changes to her name or home address, she stood up and responded, "Nothing has changed."
The prosecution requested a four-year prison sentence and a fine of 21 million KRW (approximately 15,298 USD), stating, "She insulted the victims on five occasions. She actively posted false videos, damaging their reputations."
They also noted, "Her actions interfered with the management activities of the victims' agencies. She operated a paid membership system and consistently spread defamatory content regarding the victims' appearance, character, and relationships."
Previously, Sojang had created and distributed false content about EXO's Suho and aespa's Karina, profiting from these actions. Later, SM Entertainment challenged Park's actions.
Park's defense attorney admitted to all charges, stating, "The defendant's actions were not solely for profit but were committed with indirect intent. She is currently engaged in volunteer work and receiving mental health treatment."
The defense also expressed a desire to reach a settlement with the victims, stating, "We attempted a settlement through civil proceedings, but it has been difficult. We will continue to seek an agreement until the very end."
Additionally, the attorney requested sufficient time for the sentencing, explaining, "The defendant has surgery scheduled for mid-November," to which the judge asked if this would affect her attendance in court, and Park confirmed that it would not.
The defense further emphasized Park's positive contributions to society, stating, "Since the incident, the defendant has been engaging in volunteer work and is striving to have a positive impact on society. We ask for the court's utmost leniency."
Park read her letter of apology, saying, "I deeply regret and apologize for causing significant harm to the victims. I have reflected on myself and regret the pain I caused them."
She added, "I have struggled with guilt and pessimistic thoughts. However, I want to become someone who contributes positively to society, even in small ways. Through volunteer work, I have gained positive energy by interacting with people, not just through the internet."
Concluding her statement, she said, "I realize I was confined to my own world, unable to make better judgments. Going forward, I will live with a sense of responsibility and sincerely repent for my actions."
After the trial, reporters asked Park about the four-year sentence requested by the prosecution, but she declined to comment. Her attorney also stated, "Everything we had to say was stated in court."
Park is also facing separate defamation lawsuits from IVE's Jang Won Young and Starship Entertainment, as well as a case involving Kang Daniel. Last month, she was ordered to pay 10 million KRW (approximately 7,236 USD) in damages in the first trial.
The sentencing for the Sojang case is scheduled for December 18.
SHARE
