BTS' agency provides update on legal action against YouTuber Sojang and those stealing members' personal data
BTS agency BIGHIT MUSIC has shared an update on the results of legal action taken in the protection of the group's rights against Sojang and other defamatory commenters. Know more!
On September 30, BIGHIT MUSIC issued an official statement updating fans on the legal proceedings aimed at protecting BTS' rights. This action targets malicious YouTuber Sojang and other individuals making defamatory comments.
In their official statement, the agency wrote:
“Hello. This is BIGHIT MUSIC. Our company regularly conducts legal proceedings against perpetrators of malicious activities targeting BTS, including defamation, personal attacks, sexual harassment, the spread of groundless information, and ill-intentioned criticism. We would like to provide an update on these ongoing efforts.
This quarter, we have continued to collect evidence of numerous malicious posts uploaded across various online forums, including Ilgan Best, DC Inside, theqoo, FMKorea, and instiz, through fan reports and internal monitoring. We have submitted complaints to the relevant investigative authorities regarding these materials.
As noted in our previous notice, the first trial for damages incurred by defamation and other illegal activities by Taldeok Camp (탈덕수용소) has begun, and follow-up procedures are being diligently pursued. Additionally, we are actively coordinating with law enforcement and government agencies to ensure that individuals who illegally acquired and spread the artists’ personal information are appropriately punished."
The agency stated that some individuals from previous complaints, which were forwarded to the prosecutor’s office on charges of defamation and personal attacks, have been sentenced to fines. These individuals were identified as users of online forums such as NAVER, Ilgan Best, Nate Pann, and FMKorea. Some had repeatedly posted malicious content over an extended period and received the maximum fines for each charge. The agency is also awaiting results for additional suspects recently referred to the prosecutor’s office following police investigations and remains committed to ensuring they face strict penalties.
They also stated that they will continue to collect, report, and take legal action against malicious posts targeting BTS members, who are currently serving their mandatory military service. Their legal efforts will persist throughout this period, with firm measures against offenders. There will be no leniency or settlements under any circumstances.
Lastly, as mentioned in a prior notice, BIGHIT MUSIC has revamped the “Protect” email hotline into the new “HYBE Artist Rights Infringement Report System” (protect.hybecorp.com) to provide faster and more efficient responses to reports. They kindly asked that any violations of artist rights be reported by fans via this new web page rather than the previous email hotline.
Finally, they stated, "We sincerely appreciate the unwavering support and dedication of BTS fans. BIGHIT MUSIC will remain dedicated to safeguarding the rights of our artists.Thank you.”
Check out the full announcement here:
For those unfamiliar, BTS' agency first filed a complaint against the malicious YouTuber in 2022. However, the investigation was suspended at that time and has only recently been reopened.
Earlier in March, BIGHIT MUSIC, along with V and Jungkook, filed a defamation lawsuit against Park (Sojang). The agency accused her of creating unfounded malicious content and sought 90 million KRW in damages for business obstruction.
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