YouTuber ‘Sojang’ Sentenced: Jang Wonyoung and BTS Fight Back Against Defamation!

The controversial YouTuber known as 'Sojang,' who gained notoriety for spreading defamatory content about celebrities, has been sentenced to prison with probation. The Incheon District Court ruled on January 15 that Ms. Park, the person behind the YouTube channel, will serve a two-year prison sentence, suspended with a three-year probation, along with a fine of approximately 200 million KRW (137,000 USD).
Court Condemns Defamation Crimes
Presiding Judge Kim Saet Byeol emphasized the serious nature of defamation crimes, stating, “Defamation causes irreparable harm to victims and must be dealt with severely.” The court found that Park uploaded numerous provocative and defamatory videos targeting high-profile celebrities, earning significant profits through ad revenue and memberships.
Between October 2021 and June 2023, Park produced 23 videos featuring false claims, manipulated audio, and spliced footage about stars such as IVE’s Jang Wonyoung, BTS’s Jungkook and V, Kang Daniel, and others. The content often included offensive remarks and body-shaming, generating 250 million KRW (171,000 USD) in profits.
Efforts Toward Restitution
The court acknowledged mitigating factors, including Park’s admission of guilt, efforts to reflect on the harm caused, and partial financial compensation to the victims. Park has paid 60 million KRW in restitution, including 20 million KRW to Jang Wonyoung.
High-Profile Lawsuits
The defamation lawsuits against Park have attracted widespread attention due to the celebrities involved:
- Jang Wonyoung: Filed a 1 billion KRW damages suit, with the court ruling in her favor. Park has appealed.
- BTS Members Jungkook and V: Ongoing lawsuits for defamation and damages.
- Kang Daniel: Awarded 30 million KRW in damages in the first trial; Park has appealed.
- SM Entertainment: Filed charges related to defamation of EXO’s Suho and aespa.
Park’s Plea for Leniency
During the October trial, Park expressed regret for her actions, 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.”