South Korean actor Gong Yoo has been acquitted legally after a defamation case against a woman in her 40s known only as ‘A’. The Criminal Division 5 of the Daejeon District Court wrapped up the case on July 29, handing down a six-month jail term to the defendant, suspended for two years of probation.
Between January 2020 and March 2021, the woman posted 235 defamatory messages on various online platforms, falsely claiming Gong Yoo had harassed and threatened her. A particularly notable claim occurred during a live broadcast in January 2020, where she alleged: “I’m being threatened from behind… He torments me to the point of neurosis.”
Court Confirms No Connection
A thorough inquiry showed that there was no close relationship between the woman and Gong Yoo, and all charges were false. The court asserted, “The allegations made by A are entirely unfounded and, in addition, she continuously disseminated misinformation for a long period.”
Serious Impact on Public Figures
While recognising the fame of Gong Yoo as a public figure, the court highlighted the seriousness of the offence, as dissemination of such false information has degrading consequences even against celebrities.
Previous Offences in Mind
The court took note of the woman’s previous criminal history, where she had two comparable infractions. Her admission of guilt and agreement to undergo hospital treatment, though, were put into consideration while handing down a suspended sentence.
Gong Yoo Keeps Mum
Gong Yoo, who is an internationally known actor for his works in Goblin, Train to Busan, and Squid Game, has yet to issue a public statement on the court’s decision.
