In a pivotal development in the legal battle between Starship Entertainment and the operator of the YouTube channel "Sojang," the Seoul Central District Court convened for the third hearing on June 19th.
The lawsuit, which centers on damages claims amounting to defamation, has drawn significant attention due to its implications for online content regulation and celebrity rights.
Starship Entertainment, representing Jang Wonyoung and other celebrities, has pursued both civil and criminal actions against the operator, identified only as A, since November 2022.
A stands accused of posting 23 defamatory videos targeting seven celebrities and influencers, including Jang Wonyoung, between October 2021 and June 2023.
At the recent hearing, attended solely by legal representatives from both parties, A's lawyer provided updates on the criminal proceedings against their client.
"The case has been indicted, but no trial date has been set," stated the defense counsel.
The lawyer also expressed concerns over the handling of the case by the authorities, hinting at what they perceived as unusual publicity and procedural maneuvers.
"It is unusual for the prosecution to publicize this case to the extent that it feels like disclosing details of the investigation. Initially, the Incheon District Prosecutor's Office wanted to arrest A and requested a warrant, which was denied. They then combined other cases to reapply for the warrant, but that was also denied. Eventually, A was indicted without detention, raising questions about the fairness and motives behind the legal process " -Lawyer
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In response, Starship Entertainment emphasized their commitment to the legal process.
"Starship Entertainment did not submit this separately. The materials distributed by the prosecution can be submitted as evidence." -Starship Entertainment
The court acknowledged the complexity of the issues at hand, stressing the importance of credibility in assessing the evidence.
"It is a matter of credibility and the key is how to figure it out."
-Court
Meanwhile, the lawsuit's civil branch, focusing on damages claims, progresses separately.
Jang Wonyoung's claim is set for its first appellate hearing on September 4th, marking another critical juncture in the ongoing legal saga.
The outcome of these proceedings could potentially influence future cases concerning online defamation and the responsibilities of content creators.
As the legal battles continue to unfold, stakeholders across South Korea's entertainment and digital media sectors remain attentive to their implications on free speech, celebrity rights, and the regulation of online platforms.
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KpopStarz owns this article.
Written by Cassidy Jones.
