Jang Won-young Wins Second Trial Against ‘Taldeok Camp’ YouTuber... Court Awards $38,000 in Damages

IVE’s Jang Won-young has won her second legal battle against the operator of the YouTube channel ‘Taldeok Camp,’ known for spreading malicious rumors.

The court awarded $38,000 in damages for defamation.

■ Significance of the Second Trial

The Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Appellate Division 9-3 partially ruled in favor of Jang Won-young in the damages lawsuit she filed against YouTuber Park.

In the first trial, Park failed to respond, leading the court to fully grant Jang’s claim of $76,000.

However, during the appeal, the damages were adjusted after considering Park’s defense and counterarguments.

■ Lawsuit Proceedings

While Park remained unresponsive during the first trial, he hired legal representation and filed an appeal only after the initial ruling.

This appellate decision represents the court’s first substantive judgment on the case. Jang’s legal team has since filed an appeal against the ruling, and a final judgment is expected in April.

■ Criminal Activities of ‘Taldeok Camp’

From October 2021 to June 2024, ‘Taldeok Camp’ published false and defamatory videos targeting numerous idols, including Jang Won-young.

The channel has been accused of operating as a cyber exploitation platform.

Other idols such as BTS members V and Jungkook, as well as Kang Daniel, along with their agencies, have also filed civil and criminal lawsuits against Park.

■ Criminal Sentencing

The Incheon District Court sentenced Park to two years in prison with a three-year probation and ordered a forfeiture of $152,000 in illicit earnings.

The court noted that Park repeatedly defamed prominent celebrities and profited from sensational content, emphasizing the severity of his actions.

■ Defendant’s Attitude

During a hearing in October, Park expressed regret, stating, "I was trapped in the limited world of the internet and failed to make sound judgments."

He submitted a letter of apology seeking leniency. However, the court, citing the gravity of the crimes and the scale of harm caused, imposed a severe penalty.

This ruling demonstrates the judiciary’s firm stance against the malicious spread of false information and defamation targeting public figures.

The harsh punishment for profit-driven, systematic defamation underscores the seriousness with which such offenses are treated.

The verdict is expected to serve as a warning against the rising tide of cybercrimes targeting celebrities.

It signals stronger legal accountability for defamation and the dissemination of false information through platforms like YouTube and other social media channels.

As the Supreme Court’s final decision approaches, the case is likely to enhance public awareness and strengthen legal responses to cybercrimes targeting entertainers.