Korean solo artist IU sues former classmate and 180 others over online harassment, deepfakes and defamation

Korean solo artist IU sues former classmate and 180 others over online harassment, deepfakes and defamation

Korean singer-songwriter IU, also known as Lee Ji Yoon, has taken decisive legal action against more than 180 individuals involved in cyberbullying. According to a recent update from the agency, these legal proceedings, which were initiated in 2023, are continuing, with some cases having already reached the stage of formal court hearings.

IU her world tour (Photo- Adam Entertainment)

Allegations against these individuals range from serious harassment, including threats and defamation, to the creation and distribution of harmful deepfake content. IU’s agency cited the seriousness of these crimes, saying they believe they meet the criteria for criminal charges.

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IU files legal suit against 180 individuals over cyber bullying

K-pop idols and celebrities often face online harassment, which is often seen as the dark side of fan culture. In some cases, cyberstalking escalates to the point where idols face physical threats. On November 11 (KST), EDAM released a statement announcing that they had filed complaints citing cases of serious harassment.

“Our agency, in collaboration with a law firm, has filed complaints targeting individuals who have engaged in criminal acts, including threats, defamation, malicious false accusations of plagiarism, death threats, violation of privacy, sexual “Including harassment, distribution of pornographic materials, and other illegal activities,” EDAM said in an official statement, according to The Korea Times.

IU sues former classmate for cyberbullying

According to insiders, in addition to the 180 cases already filed, more charges are pending. One of the accused in the case includes the singer’s former classmate. “Among them, there is a man who is believed to be IU’s middle school classmate. Despite the ongoing case, it has been found that they continue to harass IU. So, we are responding,” EDAM said.

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According to the agency, the case, which made a lot of headlines in 2023, caused a major controversy and has so far resulted in six fines, three cases with compulsory education and one case with probation. These cases also include allegations from April and May last year, where the singer was targeted with baseless claims of plagiarism.

EDAM also highlighted a particular case where IU faced severe online harassment, including false rumors, sexual harassment, and death threats. Prosecutors have requested a fine of 3 million won (about $2,240) on the person involved. The man is reportedly appealing the sentence, with a formal hearing pending.

EDAM revealed that it has cooperated with “relevant” sources to track down individuals using foreign IP addresses or living abroad in efforts to avoid legal trouble. In one case, a suspect accused IU of spying, claiming that she was a spy. However, progress has been delayed as the suspect has consistently refused to appear for questioning. The case has now been handed over to the prosecution for further investigation.

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