First Trial of YouTuber Who Spread Fake News "Jang Wonyoung Jealousy Caused Debut Cancellation"... Additional Charges Under Investigation

'Taldeok Suyongso' Operator Mr. A "Occupation is Entrepreneur"
Posted Multiple Defamatory Videos About Celebrities
Approximately 250 Million KRW Revenue from YouTube Channel

Group IVE member Jang Wonyoung.

The operator of the YouTube channel 'Taldeok Suyongso,' who spread fake news and continuously defamed group IVE's Jang Wonyoung, denied the charges.

The first trial of YouTuber A (35), who was indicted on charges of defamation and insult under the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection, was held on the 2nd at the Incheon District Court Criminal Division 11, presided over by Judge Kim Saetbyeol, according to Yonhap News.

Operator of the YouTube channel 'Taldeok Suyongso'. Photo by Yonhap News

According to Yonhap News, A appeared at the court wearing black top and bottom clothing, glasses, and a mask, barely revealing his face. During the judge's recognition questioning, he calmly answered questions about his date of birth and residence, stating his occupation as a businessman. A is accused of posting 23 videos defaming seven celebrities and influencers on 'Taldeok Suyongso' from October 2021 to June last year, damaging their reputations.

A's defense attorney stated, "We admit to producing the videos, but deny the other charges." He added, "There was no intent to defame or obstruct business, and even if it were considered defamation, it was based on a belief in the truthfulness of the facts, thus negating illegality." When Judge Kim asked, "The statement says the videos expressed opinions and are not defamation; does that mean there was no intent?" the defense replied, "Since it was merely expressing opinions, it is difficult to consider it defamation."

During the trial, it was also revealed that A is under additional investigation by the Incheon District Prosecutors' Office. A's defense attorney explained, "The defendant is currently under investigation for two other cases at the Incheon District Prosecutors' Office, which are pending, and prosecution is expected soon. These cases are similar to the existing one but involve different victims and charges of defamation and insult." A's next trial is scheduled for October 2 at 10 a.m. at the Incheon District Court.

Previously, 'Taldeok Suyongso' was notorious as a 'cyber wrecker' YouTuber who created content involving fake news and malicious defamation of celebrities. He produced and spread false videos claiming, for example, that "Jang Wonyoung was jealous and caused a fellow trainee's debut to be canceled," or that "other celebrities were involved in prostitution or plastic surgery." In response, IVE's agency Starship Entertainment filed a lawsuit against A for damages, stating that "Jang Wonyoung's reputation was damaged due to the continuous spread of false information."

As a result of analyzing the YouTube channel's account for investigation, the prosecution confirmed that A earned about 250 million KRW over two years from June 2021. He also purchased real estate with part of the earnings. The court ruled in favor of the plaintiff in January, ordering A to pay 100 million KRW to Jang Wonyoung. The second trial is currently underway.