Members of the global sensation BTS, V and Jungkook, have secured a significant legal victory in their ongoing battle against defamation. On January 23, 2024, the Seoul Western District Court Appeals Division ruled in favor of the two artists, ordering the defendant, Park, who operates the controversial YouTube channel Sojang, to pay ₩86.0 million KRW (approximately $59,500 USD) in damages.
This ruling marks a partial overturning of a previous judgment made in February 2023, where the court had initially ordered Park to pay ₩51.0 million KRW (around $35,300 USD) to BIGHIT MUSIC, the agency representing BTS. Additionally, Park was directed to compensate V with ₩10.0 million KRW (about $6,910 USD) and Jungkook with ₩15.0 million KRW (approximately $10,400 USD). The total damages sought by the plaintiffs amounted to ₩90.0 million KRW (about $62,200 USD).
The recent appellate decision has led to an increase in the compensation owed to each BTS member. The court ordered Park to pay an additional ₩5.0 million KRW (around $3,460 USD) to both V and Jungkook, raising the total payout to ₩86.0 million KRW.
Sojang has a troubling history of defaming multiple celebrities and was previously sentenced to a two-year prison term, with three years’ probation. The court also imposed a fine of ₩210 million KRW (approximately $146,000 USD) and mandated that she complete 120 hours of community service.
In light of this legal victory, both V and Jungkook have expressed their commitment to fighting against defamation and protecting their reputations. The ruling not only highlights the importance of justice for public figures but also serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with social media platforms.
The BTS fandom, known as ARMY, has rallied in support of the members throughout this legal journey, showcasing the unity and strength of their community. As the group continues to work on new music and projects, this win may play a crucial role in shaping their public image in a digital age fraught with challenges.
