MBC Reporter Suspected of Joining Telegram 'Baksa Bang' Paid Membership Under Police Investigation

Screenshot of MBC Newsdesk broadcast on June 4.

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-ju] The police investigating paid members of the Telegram 'Baksa Room' are reportedly questioning an MBC reporter who paid virtual currency to join the Baksa Room.

According to the broadcasting industry, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Special Investigation Unit on Digital Sex Crimes summoned MBC reporter A on the afternoon of the 5th for questioning. The police are reportedly verifying the facts regarding A's payment of the Baksa Room membership fee and whether A was active in the room.

After related allegations surfaced, MBC formed a 'Truth Investigation Committee on Alleged Attempts to Trade Sexual Exploitation Videos' at the end of April and conducted an internal investigation. The committee announced the previous day that it could not find evidence to substantiate A's claim that the actions were for reporting purposes.

Additionally, MBC's investigation committee concluded that ▲ A signed a membership contract to pay the Baksa Room membership fee, ▲ A was recognized as having joined and been active in the Baksa Room, and ▲ A's statement that the membership was for reporting purposes is difficult to trust.

MBC stated, "We will hold a personnel committee for the subject of the investigation in the future and take disciplinary or other measures as stipulated in the company regulations. We will make every effort to prevent recurrence of unethical personal misconduct by our employees and promise to do our best to fulfill the responsibilities of a public broadcaster."