The South Korean school bullying scandal which has dragged on for so long starring actress Song Ha-Yoon has taken a dramatic new turn, as the accuser “A” has returned to Korea to assist with the investigation. The move comes over one year after the accusation first emerged and is set to bring the case back into the spotlight.
Accuser Seeks Dignified Resolution, Not Legal Battle
In a fourth public announcement issued on August 25, “A” described her motivation for stepping forward. She indicated that legal confrontation had never been her overriding objective but instead a resolution that would leave both sides with dignity.
“I never intended to turn this into a controversy from the start,” she said. “After the third statement, I urged her law firm to drop all lawsuits and put the issue to rest with dignity.”
In spite of attempts to resolve issues behind closed doors, the dispute still persisted, and “A” resurfaced with the probe and agreed to provide complete cooperation to the authorities. She is said to be ready to provide email evidence to substantiate her allegations of bullying in high school.
Dispute Over Financial Support and Public Narrative
Constituting another source of tension is a dispute over travel costs. There were reports that Song Ha-Yoon’s agency had made a contribution to help enable “A’s” return to Korea, but the complainant alleges this assistance was negligible and unfairly marketed to the public.
“Song Ha-Yoon’s side described it as paying 100 percent of the entire amount, while in fact, it is only a partial payment in a limited scope,” she said. “Even with elementary calculations, I will have to endure at least six times more than Song Ha-Yoon’s limited aid.
“A” clarified that she herself paid for her airfare, accommodation, and transportation expenses, dismissing the claim that all her return costs were borne by the actress’s camp.
Allegations Date Back to 2004
The allegations date to 2004 when both were at Banpo High School. “A” claims constant bullying by Song Ha-Yoon, which allegedly prompted Song to switch schools. After the first JTBC report, some of her former classmates came forward with testifying statements, heightening suspicion on the actress.
As “A” prepares to present new evidence, the case—previously stalled—appears to be regaining traction. Whether it will lead to formal charges or be resolved through private settlement remains uncertain, but Song Ha-Yoon’s public image is once again under fire.
