Controversial YouTuber Sojang has received a prison sentence and a penalty fine due to defamation charges.
On January 15, Korean news outlet Newsen reported that Sojang, the operator of Taldeok Camp, had been given a suspended prison sentence of two years, probation of three years, and was charged with defamation and insult.
A penalty fine of ₩200 million, which is equivalent to $136,880, was also implemented against the YouTuber. The court then released a statement, saying that Sojang's defamation crime needed to be "severely punished" due to the irreparable harm it caused its victims.
Sojang is infamous for slandering numerous Korean artists and celebrities through her YouTube channel. She has reportedly produced defamatory videos based on malicious or unfounded claims, earning ₩250 million (approximately $171,100) in the process.
Idols such as IVE's Jang Wonyoung, Kang Daniel, BTS' Jungkook, EXO's Suho, and aespa have taken legal action against her.
Notably, on January 17, 2024, Starship Entertainment confirmed that Wonyoung emerged victorious in her lawsuit against Sojang. The agency elaborated that two separate lawsuits were filed by Wonyoung and the agency.
On October 22, 2024, Sojang initially had a four-year prison sentence. The YouTuber also admitted to all the charges and said that she was reflecting on her actions.
