HYBE Uncovers YouTube Creators Responsible for Defamatory Content Targeting ILLIT and LE SSERAFIM

HYBE Secures Court Approval to Pursue YouTube Channel Operators for Defamation

A U.S. District Court has officially endorsed HYBE’s initiative to obtain evidence from Google and YouTube, which will be utilized in an ongoing foreign legal endeavor. This strategic move aims to hold the operators of specific YouTube channels responsible under civil and criminal laws in South Korea.

On November 27th (local time), Chief Magistrate Judge Donna M. Ryu from the Northern District of California granted permission to HYBE, along with its subsidiaries Belift Lab and Source Music, to issue subpoenas against Google. The ruling emphasized, “The petitioner’s request is approved, and Google must furnish all information related to the YouTube channels within 30 days.”

Allegations of Defamation Against ILLIT and LE SSERAFIM

HYBE claims that certain YouTube channels, such as “Cute Rabbit Jjang,””EnterPick,”and “People Box,”have disseminated false information. These channels have accused the K-pop group ILLIT of plagiarism and have criticized LE SSERAFIM, also part of Source Music, for purportedly hiding the perceived lack of talent among its members.

Legal Action Taken in South Korea

In light of these allegations, HYBE initiated eight civil lawsuits on August 30th in the Seoul Western District Court, seeking to identify the operators behind these YouTube channels. This identification process is essential for pursuing both civil and potential criminal action.

Expectations from Google

HYBE has requested that Google provide documents and information capable of identifying the individuals linked to these YouTube channels. The collected evidence will be instrumental in the ongoing legal proceedings in South Korea. Following the issuance of subpoenas, Google retains the right to challenge these requests.

Judicial Ruling on Subpoena Requests

Judge Ryu articulated that the subpoena request is reasonable, stating, “It is neither excessively intrusive nor overly burdensome, as it seeks only the necessary information.” As per the ruling, Google is obliged to release the requested information within the determined timeframe, while the YouTube channel operators have 30 days to contest the subpoenas if they choose to do so.

For further details, refer to the original article on Seoul Wire.

Explore more about this development in the coverage provided by KBizoom.