When music agencies update on the legal action they are about to take to protect their idols, they really mean it. A netizen convicted of repeatedly posting malicious comments about singer-actress IU received a harsher sentence on appeal.
On May 31, the Seoul Central District Court’s appellate division sentenced the defendant, identified only as A, to four months in prison, suspended for one year, on charges of criminal insult after the court found that the defendant had shown no remorse for the offenses.
In addition, the court also ordered one year of probation and 80 hours of community service. The appellate court found that the defendant referred to IU using expressions such as “fraud” and “mentally ill.” Ultimately, the remarks amounted to criminal insult under Korean law, and the intent was clearly established.
Despite IU being a public figure, the court explained that these kinds of comments exceed the level of criticism that could be considered socially acceptable. Because the defendant did not appeal further, the ruling has become final.
