“Defaming Jang Wonyoung”: Lawyer for Sojang Raises Concerns About Possible Media Manipulation by Prosecution

The third hearing for the damages claim lawsuit filed by Starship Entertainment against A, the operator of “Sojang”, was held by the Seoul Central District Court on the morning of June 19th.

Jang Wonyoung and Starship have been taking legal action against A since November 2022, both within and outside their home country. A is facing allegations of defamation for uploading 23 videos on their channel from October 2021 to June 2023, which defamed 7 celebrities and influencers, including Jang Wonyoung.

During the hearing, the only individuals in attendance were the legal representatives of both parties. A’s lawyer informed the court that the criminal case against A had been indicted, but a trial date had not yet been scheduled.

The lawyer clarified that it is uncommon for the prosecution to release details of an investigation to the public. The Incheon District Prosecutor’s Office initially attempted to obtain an arrest warrant for A, but it was denied. They then tried to combine other cases in order to reapply for the warrant, but this attempt was also unsuccessful.

The lawyer remarked that A was ultimately indicted without being detained, but the situation seemed like a result of media manipulation and the true intention was unclear.

In reply, Starship argued, “Starship Entertainment did not submit this separately. The evidence provided by the prosecution can serve as proof.”The court stated, “The issue at hand is one of credibility and the crucial aspect is determining the truth.”

Furthermore, the initial appeal hearing for Jang Wonyoung’s lawsuit seeking damages from A is set to take place on September 4th.