YouTuber behind ‘Sojang’ sentenced to probation for defamation against celebrities.

The controversial YouTuber ‘Sojang’, known for spreading defamatory content about celebrities such as IVE’s Jang Wonyoung, has been sentenced to prison with probation.

On January 15th, the Incheon District Court sentenced Ms. Park to two years in prison with a three-year probation and ordered him to pay a fine of approximately 200 million KRW (approximately 137,000 USD).

Presiding Judge Kim Saet Byeol emphasized the severity of defamation crimes, stating:

“Defamation causes irreparable harm to victims and must be dealt with severely.”

The court noted that Park repeatedly uploaded defamatory and provocative videos targeting famous celebrities, earning significant profits in the process.

However, mitigating factors included Park’s eventual admission of guilt, his efforts to reflect on his actions, and financial restitution to victims. Park has so far deposited 60 million KRW in compensation, including 20 million KRW to Jang Wonyoung.

From October 2021 to June 2023, Park produced and disseminated 23 defamatory videos about celebrities such as Jang Wonyoung, BTS’s Jungkook and V, Kang Daniel, and others. These videos included manipulated audio, spliced footage, and false claims. Many contained body-shaming and offensive remarks, generating 250 million KRW (approximately 171,000 USD) in profits through ad revenue and paid memberships.

Park faces multiple civil and criminal lawsuits:

• Jang Wonyoung filed a 1 billion KRW damage suit, with the court ordering him to pay the full amount in January. Park has since appealed.

• Separate lawsuits from BTS members V and Jungkook are ongoing.

• Kang Daniel won 30 million KRW in damages in a first trial, which Park has appealed.

• SM Entertainment has also filed charges regarding defamation of EXO’s Suho and aespa.

During his trial in October, Park pleaded for leniency, stating:

“I have been trapped in my own world on the internet and failed to judge right from wrong. I deeply regret my actions and promise to live responsibly from now on.”

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