The ongoing legal feud between the burgeoning K-pop sensation, Wonyoung of IVE, and the controversial YouTuber, known as "Sojang," has taken a contentious turn, as the latter refuses to comply with court orders and denies the existence of a pivotal apology letter.
Court's Decision Challenged
In a twist to the saga that has gripped entertainment circles since October 2024, when Wonyoung and Starship Entertainment lodged a lawsuit against Sojang for defamation and insults, the YouTuber, identified as Park, has lodged an appeal contesting the court's verdict.
Despite being ordered to pay ₩100 million KRW (approximately $75,200 USD) to the aggrieved party, Sojang has sought a stay of execution of the ruling.
This maneuver, executed on January 17, involved a substantial deposit to forestall any forced measures of execution, effectively halting the payment of damages.
Read also: IVE Jang Wonyoung's Hate Train Reportedly Fueled by Sojang's 'Part-Timers' + DIVEs, K-Netz Enraged
Denial of Apology Letter
Compounding the legal entanglement, Park, the individual behind the Sojang persona, has refuted claims of issuing a contrite apology letter, which had surfaced online in June 2023.
The missive, purportedly authored by Sojang, expressed remorse to several celebrities, including Wonyoung and BTS's V, for fabricating accusations and spreading malicious rumors through their YouTube channel.
However, Park staunchly denies ever penning such a letter, asserting that the content uploaded served the public interest and thus did not constitute defamation.
Contesting the Court's Ruling
Moreover, Sojang contests the exorbitant compensation mandated by the court, arguing that even if their actions amounted to defamation, the prescribed damages are disproportionate. This defiant stance prolongs the legal wrangle between the embattled parties, further exacerbating tensions.
Legal Maneuvers and Media Disclosures
In response to Park's appeal, Wonyoung's legal representatives have embarked on extensive measures to apprehend the elusive YouTuber. Recent disclosures from Wonyoung's lawyer shed light on the meticulous efforts undertaken to apprehend Park, underscoring the gravity of the legal impasse.
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Written by Cassidy Jones.