IU and EDAM Entertainment Take Legal Action Against 180 Online Harassment Offenders, Including Former Classmates of the K-Pop Singer

K-pop star IU, also known as Lee Ji-eun, is once again making headlines, but this time, it’s for something much more serious. Her agency, EDAM Entertainment, confirmed that the singer is taking legal action against over 180 individuals involved in online harassment. The agency revealed that IU has been subjected to malicious online activities for the past two years, from death threats to sexual harassment, the K-pop went through all that. Now the agency came forward and took steps to handle the matter legally. They have joined hands with a law firm to accumulate evidence and block the perpetrators. The case has since been referred to the public prosecutor. BTS V aka Kim Taehyung and JHope Make Surprise Appearance at IU’s Final Concert of HEREH World Tour in Seoul! (See Pics).

Over 180 People Sued for Online Harassment of IU, Including Former Classmates, by EDAM Entertainment

According to Koreaboo, EDAM Entertainment revealed 180 individuals, among them six cases resulting in fines and the stripping of business licenses. Three other cases were resolved through conditional non-prosecution, with the offenders required to complete educational courses. The agency stated, "We have selected only the most serious cases of illegal activity and are pursuing criminal charges without leniency." "We have documented and managed thousands of posts and comments that meet the criteria for defamation. We will continue to respond strongly. It is time to put an end to illegal activities committed through online platforms."

EDAM Entertainment's Post

Cases That Faced Cyber-Bullying

Two suspects accused of cyberbullying received penalties of two years ban and three million (approx USD 2,200) for spreading false information and sexual harassment.  However, some defendants have challenged the charges, leading to actual trials. Some of these cases are currently in the trial process, IU's representatives said. The agency revealed that one individual is a former middle school classmate of the singer, who was close to IU. Despite the current notice, the individual continues to harass her. MAMA 2024 Nominations Out! SEVENTEEN, LE SSERAFIM, Jennie, IU, NewJeans, BTS Jungkook, BTS Jimin, and Other K-Pop Artists Lead Nominees for the 25th Award Ceremony – See Full List.

Current Update on IU’s Harassment Case

The agency also cited continuing harassment by some individuals challenging all or specific aspects of these efforts that they now must address in formal court hearings. In particular, the personal details of offenders living abroad are among those identified. EDAM Entertainment also stated that they are collaborating with law enforcement agencies to track the perpetrators through foreign Internet protocol (IP) addresses.

The agency said, that with the rise in number of the violations, the penalties will increase too. The agency stressed that it will continue to take legal action against any further malicious activities targeting IU.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Nov 12, 2024 02:14 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).