The operator of the YouTube channel 'Taldeok Sooyongso'(Taldeok Camp A.K.A. 'Sojang'), identified as A, has been sentenced to a suspended prison term for spreading fake news about Jang Won-young, a member of the girl group IVE.
On January 15, Judge Kim Saet-byul of the Incheon District Court's Criminal Division 11 sentenced A to two years in prison, suspended for three years, on charges of defamation and insult under the Information and Communications Network Act. A was also ordered to pay a fine of 210 million won (approximately $143,766.69 USD) and perform 120 hours of community service.
Judge Kim stated, "Defamation causes irreparable harm to victims, and strict punishment is necessary. The defendant repeatedly defamed well-known celebrities and uploaded provocative content to their YouTube channel, earning significant profits, which makes the crime particularly severe."
However, the court acknowledged mitigating factors, noting, "The defendant has admitted guilt and shown remorse, and the publicity of the case appears to have given them an opportunity for reflection. Furthermore, the defendant deposited 20 million won (approximately $13,692.07 USD) for Jang Won-young and a total of 60 million won (approximately $41,076.20 USD) for all victims."
From October 2021 to June 2023, A uploaded 23 videos defaming seven celebrities and influencers on their YouTube channel. A forensic analysis of the channel’s accounts revealed that A had earned approximately 250 million won (approximately $171,150.82 USD) over two years.
One of the main targets was Jang Won-young. A fabricated and circulated false claims such as, “Jang Won-young sabotaged a fellow trainee’s debut out of jealousy.” These false accusations led Jang and her agency, Starship Entertainment, to file both criminal and civil lawsuits, including international litigation, against A in November 2022.
In addition to the lawsuit involving Jang Won-young, A was ordered to pay 30 million won (approximately $20,538.10 USD) in damages to singer Kang Daniel in a separate defamation case. Members of BTS, including V and Jungkook, have also filed defamation suits against A, which are currently ongoing.