Appellate Court Delivers Final Verdict On the Infamous YouTuber Who Defamed Jungkook and V

 

The YouTube channel Sojang was once a sharp thorn in the K-pop fandom community due to its so-called "shocking reveal" videos, despite providing no actual evidence. The channel frequently went viral with videos targeting top idols, covering topics such as plastic surgery, dating, prostitution, and school-related issues. 

Between October 2021 and June 2023, at least 23 videos in that channel defamed seven public figures, notably including Jang Wonyoung, Kang Daniel, and BTS members Taehyung and Jungkook. 

During that period, the Sojang channel, operated by Park Joo-ah (40), amused approximately 60,000 subscribers and generated about 10 million won per month — totaling roughly 250 million won (around USD 185,000) over two years. Reports indicated that she used this income to purchase multiple real estate properties. 

Meanwhile, those malicious rumors caused significant damage to the public image and mental well-being of the targeting idols. Park's actions violated both ethical of spreading false and baseless information about celebrities. Over the past year, she has undergone multiple appeals and trials following a series of complaints. 

In the most recent appellate court session on November 11, Korean media reported that the court upheld the lower court's ruling, sentencing YouTuber Sojang to two years in prison, suspended for three years, for uploading false and defamatory videos about artists. She was convinced of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection. 

The appellate court also upheld the lower court's border requiring Park to pay a fine of 210 million KRW (around US$ 143,000) and complete 120 hours of community service. It should be noted that this is a criminal financial penalty imposed by the court for Park's illegal online profiteering, not the civil compensation owed due to individual victims such as Taehyung, Jungkook, or Jang Wonyoung. 

Another appeal hearing is scheduled for November 14, during which the Seoul Western District Court will deliver a final decision on the amount Park must pay as compensation to Taehyung and Jungkook. 

Previously, in February 2025 (KST), the court ordered Park Joo-ah to pay a total of approximately US$ 56,400 to the two idols and HYBE for the damages she caused, aling with statutory interest for late payment on legal fees. 

Simultaneously, in March 2024, BigHit Music, Taehyung, and Jungkook filed a claim seeking specifc damages of approximately US$ 67,000 (90 million won) and requested that prosecutors conducting a criminal investigation. 

However, Park Joo-ah appealed the lower court's ruling and repeatedly refused to pay compensation. The appellate council referred the case of meditation twice — first on June 16, 2025, and again on July 21, 2025 — but both attempts failed. 

Despite Sojang's refused to pay damages, BigHit Music, Taehyung, and Jungkook remained determined to pursue the lawsuit to the end. Ahead of the hearing, BigHit Music's legal representatives reaffirmed the company's and artists' stance, stating:

"Court findings and the prosecution's announcements confirm that the channel operated by the defendant functioned as a so-called cyber 'wrecking' outlet amounting to insult and defamation. Those videos allegedly plaintiffs. The defendant's conduct infringed upon portrait and personality rights and obstructed BigHit Music's business."

The criminal convictions of YouTuber Sojang, confirmed by the appellate court in November 11, are expected to facilitate the November 14. The compensation amount is anticipated to remain at least as previously determined by the court. 

Although the compensation may seem small compared to the idols' wealth the crucial point is that their dignity is being legally protected, setting a precedent to deter those who intend to slander or firm stance has received widespread support from fans. 

Fans also flooded social media to celebrate Park Joo-ah being held accountable for the harm she caused. Some commented that the punishment was still lenient compared to the distrees and psychological impact she inflicted on seven idols and their fans between 2021 and 2023. Nevertheless, she now ngas to "serve time in prison" and return all the illicit money she earned.