IU's Online Harasser Fined for Defamation

A 39-year-old woman, identified as Kim, has been fined 3 million won by the Seoul Central District Court for posting malicious comments about singer and actress IU (아이유, real name Lee Ji-eun). The court ruled on December 3, 2024, that Kim's comments, which belittled IU's clothing, singing ability, and statements, constituted defamation. The judge noted that the comments were not only insulting but also contemptuous, emphasizing that Kim had a prior conviction for defamation. During her final statement at the trial, Kim claimed her comments were merely expressions of personal preference and attributed her poor writing skills to a mental illness, asking for leniency. She argued that her remarks did not significantly harm IU's reputation. The prosecution had sought a four-month prison sentence. Meanwhile, IU and her agency, EDAM Entertainment, have vowed to take strong legal action against online harassment, recently announcing they would pursue legal action against serious cases of threats, defamation, and other illegal activities targeting the artist.