First Summons of 'Baksa Bang' Jo Joo-bin for Investigation... "I Will Be Investigated Alone"

Jo Joo-bin, the operator of the 'Doctor's Room' who threatened dozens of women including minors on the internet messenger Telegram and forced them to film obscene materials which he then distributed, is coming out of Jongno Police Station in Seoul on the morning of the 25th to be sent to the prosecution. / Photo by Moon Ho-nam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Dongwoo Lee] The prosecution summoned Jo Joo-bin (24), known as 'Baksa,' who is accused of producing and distributing sexually exploitative materials of women, including minors, on the mobile messenger Telegram, for the first time since his transfer on the 26th.

The Women's and Children's Crime Investigation Division of the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office (Chief Prosecutor Yoo Hyun-jung) summoned Jo as a suspect at 10:20 a.m. that day for questioning. Jo, who was transferred in custody from the police the previous day, is currently detained at Seoul Detention Center.

Based on the police investigation records, the prosecution re-verified the basic facts regarding the operation of the Telegram 'Baksa Room.'

The Ohhyun Law Firm, which had represented Jo during the police investigation phase, submitted a letter of withdrawal the previous day. The prosecution informed Jo of the withdrawal of his legal counsel in the morning and provided an opportunity to meet with a lawyer before the interrogation. Jo expressed his intention to be questioned without a lawyer that day, and the interrogation proceeded as scheduled.

Prior to Jo, the prosecution indicted four accomplices, including Cheon (29), a public official at Geoje City Hall, who were suspected of participating in the operation of the 'Baksa Room.' However, it is known that the charges against them do not specifically include a conspiracy relationship with Jo in operating the 'Baksa Room.'

Additionally, Lee (16), who is accused of creating a separate chat room named 'Taepyeongyang Expedition Team' and distributing sexually exploitative videos, was also included.

The prosecution plans to conduct a supplementary investigation into the conspiracy relationship with Jo for up to 20 days, including one extension of the detention period, before bringing the case to trial.