Jang Wonyoung and Karina Spark Controversy While Hiding Their Faces... Taldeok Prison Seeks 4-Year Sentence

False Information Spread Targeting Famous Idols
Prosecutors Seek Prison Sentence for 'Taldeoksuyongso'
Also Request Approximately 200 Million KRW Fine

Singers Jang Wonyoung and Karina. Operators of the YouTube channel 'Taldeoksuyongso'. (From left) [Photo by Instagram/Yonhap News]

The prosecution has requested a prison sentence for the 'cyber recka' YouTuber 'Taldeok Suyongso,' who spread false information about famous idols such as Jang Wonyoung and Karina to gain economic benefits.

On the 23rd, Judge Kim Saetbyeol of the Incheon District Court Criminal Division 11 sentenced A, the operator of the cyber recka 'Taldeok Suyongso,' who was indicted for defamation and insult under the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection, to 4 years in prison. Along with this, the prosecution requested the court to impose a confiscation order of about 200 million won.

A is accused of posting 23 false videos on YouTube from October 2021 to June last year, defaming seven people including Ive's Jang Wonyoung, aespa's Karina, and EXO's Suho. Additionally, for five of them, A posted 19 insulting videos and also interfered with the business of their agencies.

A's YouTube channel has about 60,000 subscribers, and it was confirmed that through posting videos, A earned an average monthly profit of about 10 million won, accumulating a total revenue of 250 million won.

The prosecution emphasized, "The defendant insulted the victims five times in total. They actively posted videos containing false information, damaging their reputation. They also interfered with the management activities of the victims' agencies, operated a paid membership system, and the content of the videos continuously targeted the victims' appearance, personality, and romantic relationships. Please consider these factors."

In the final defense, A's lawyer stated, "We admit all charges," but added, "This was not solely an act for profit. The defendant is currently doing volunteer work and receiving mental health treatment. We are trying to reach a settlement with the victims."

A said, "I am sorry for causing great pain to the victims and deeply regret it. I have objectively reflected on myself and regret causing such harm," adding, "I will live with responsibility from now on. I sincerely repent for this incident."

The court is scheduled to hold the sentencing hearing on December 18.