Both Kang Daniel and YouTuber “Sojang” Appeal Verdict in Defamation Case, Mediation Ordered
On November 27, 2024, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 29 ruled partially in favor of Kang Daniel, ordering A to pay damages of 30 million won, plus delayed interest, and cover 70% of the legal costs in a defamation lawsuit seeking 100 million won.
Both Kang Daniel and A contested the decision and filed appeals, escalating the case to a higher court.
On January 3, the Seoul Central District Court’s Civil Division 5-2 decided to refer the case to mediation, a procedure aimed at resolving disputes through mutual agreement between the parties.
Previously, on December 11, 2024, the agency ARA released a lengthy statement via its official SNS, saying, “We, along with our affiliated artist and Law Firm LIU, have decided to file an appeal in the civil lawsuit related to the YouTube channel ‘Sojang’.“
Kang Daniel’s side stated, “On November 27, 2024, the Seoul Central District Court, Civil Division 29 ordered the defendant A, the operator of ‘Sojang’, to pay damages amounting to 30 million KRW. The court acknowledged all charges, including the publication of false and provocative videos and the severe defamation of our artist’s reputation.”
They explained, “However, considering the gravity of the defendant’s illegal actions, the methods employed, and the prolonged exposure that caused significant mental anguish to our artist, we believe the ruling is unacceptably lenient. False information spreads easily, but correcting these lies inflicts immense pain and leaves lasting scars. After careful deliberation, and sharing the same concerns about the undue leniency of the criminal trial, we have decided to file an appeal.”
Kang Daniel’s side added, “We firmly believe that harsher penalties are essential for those who exploit others’ suffering for financial gain and parasitize society without remorse. This is particularly crucial as victims face immense pressure from the early stages of litigation and endure a long and challenging battle. We sincerely hope the appeals trial will deliver a just and stringent judgment that reflects the severity of the crime.”
Kang Daniel’s side emphasized, “We assure you that we will take strong legal action against anyone who indiscriminately spreads false information, engages in defamation, or launches baseless attacks on our artists.”
With Kang Daniel’s side continuing their strong legal actions and the mediation process now ordered, the possibility of an agreement between the parties remains uncertain.
Source: Daum