EXO Suho and aespa Karina Defamation Case: Possible 4-Year Prison Sentence

During the proceedings, Park conceded to all accusations and presented a handwritten letter expressing his remorse, declaring, “I am deeply sorry for my actions.”

On October 23, the final session for Park, the individual behind the “Taldeok Camp” YouTube channel, was conducted by the Incheon District Court’s Criminal Division 11, under the supervision of Judge Kim Saet-byeol. Park faced charges that included defamation and insult, as part of the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection.

Park made an appearance in court dressed entirely in black, complemented by dark glasses. When the judge inquired about any modifications to his name or address, he promptly rose and replied, “There are no changes.”

During this session, prosecutors advocated for a four-year imprisonment for Park, along with a forfeiture amounting to 211,421,152 won (around $153,000 USD). They highlighted that “The defendant insulted the victims on five occasions and actively disseminated false videos that tarnished their reputations.”

Additionally, they reiterated, “The defendant disrupted the management activities of the victims’ agencies,” urging the court to “take into account that he operated a paid membership model and repeatedly committed offenses by creating content concerning the victims’ appearances, traits, and relationships.”

Earlier, the “Taldeok Camp” had fabricated and circulated misinformation regarding EXO’s Suho, aespa’s Karina, among others, profiting from these actions, prompting concern from SM Entertainment.

In defense, Park’s attorney acknowledged all charges, explaining, “These acts were committed with conditional intent, not merely for profit,” and mentioned, “The defendant is engaged in volunteer efforts and undergoing mental health treatment.”

The lawyer further stated, “We are actively seeking a resolution with the victims. Although we have attempted to mediate in civil court, achieving an agreement has proven challenging,” showing a clear intent to continue negotiations.

Park also requested, “Please grant us some time before sentencing as I have surgery scheduled for mid-November.” When queried by the judge about the surgery’s impact on his court attendance, Park confirmed it would affect him.

The defense attorney underscored, “Since this incident, the defendant has been striving to contribute positively to society through volunteerism,” and urged, “We will keep trying to aid the victims’ recovery. Please consider showing leniency.”

Park read from his letter of apology, stating, “I sincerely regret the immense pain I have caused the victims and am reflecting on my actions,” bowing his head as he added, “I have looked at myself critically and regret inflicting such harm.”

He continued, “Since then, I have been plagued by guilt and negative thoughts. Even someone like me aspires to contribute positively to the community,” adding, “Engaging in volunteer work has helped me find positivity through face-to-face interactions rather than online communication.”

Lastly, he expressed, “Being sequestered in my digital existence appears to have clouded my judgment,” ensuring, “I will strive to lead a responsible life going forward. I am truly sorry for my past actions.”

After the trial concluded, when reporters sought Park’s views on the prosecution’s request for a four-year sentence, he opted not to respond. His attorney added, “Everything that needs to be said has already been presented in court.”

Moreover, Park is contending with a civil lawsuit for damages initiated by Jang Won-young and Starship Entertainment for defamation. Last month, he faced a similar trial for defaming Kang Daniel, which resulted in a penalty of 10 million won (approximately $7,200 USD).

The date for sentencing is currently scheduled for December 18.

Source: Daum

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