SEOUL, March 31 (AJP) - A South Korean internet user fined for posting malicious comments about actress Han Ye-seul was acquitted on appeal.
The Seoul Central District Court on Sunday overturned the original ruling against the defendant who had been charged with defamation after commenting on an article about Han’s husband in July 2021. The article involved allegations that he had worked at an adult entertainment venue as a high-end escort before tying the knot with the actress.
The comment in question read: "This is why there is no hope for troublemakers. Act your age. What are you doing at 40?"
In the initial trial, the court imposed a fine of 300,000 won ($220), ruling that the comment specifically targeted Han, who was 40 years old at the time, and contained derogatory language that damaged her social reputation.
However, the appeals court reached a different conclusion, stating that while the defendant's comment was inappropriate, it appeared to criticize the broader entertainment industry rather than personally attacking Han.
"In reality, various rumors about famous entertainers frequently circulate online," the appeals court stated in its ruling. "Although the defendant's comment was clearly inappropriate, the expressions used cannot definitively be characterized as malicious enough to constitute a punishable offense."
The prosecution did not appeal to the Supreme Court, making the acquittal final.
Under South Korean law, defamation charges can only be pursued when the victim files a direct complaint, as it is classified as a crime requiring the victim's initiative.
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