30s Woman Appeals for Leniency in IU Defamation Case, Citing Mental Health Issues

A sentencing hearing for a woman in her 30s, charged with posting malicious comments about singer and actress IU (아이유), is set to take place today at the Seoul Central District Court. The court, presided over by Judge Lee Kyung-sun, will deliver its verdict on the charges of defamation against the accused, referred to as A.

A is accused of posting four derogatory comments on April 10, 2022, that belittled IU's clothing choices and singing abilities. During the closing arguments held on November 26, the prosecution requested a four-month prison sentence for A.

In her defense, A claimed, "I was merely expressing my personal preferences," and added, "I suffer from a mental illness that affects my writing skills. I hope for leniency."

Since 2013, IU has been actively combating online harassment, taking strong legal action against malicious posts and comments. On November 11, her team announced that they are pursuing legal action against over 180 individuals for various offenses, including threats, defamation through false information, and privacy violations. So far, there have been six cases resulting in fines, three cases of deferred prosecution with educational requirements, and one case of probation with conditions.