Prosecutors Seek 4-Year Prison Sentence for "Taldoc Camp" Operator in Cyber Defamation Case
The prosecution has requested a four-year prison sentence for Ms. Park, the operator of the YouTube channel "Taldoc Camp," which is known for controversial content. Park admitted to all charges during today's hearing, submitting a handwritten letter of apology and stating, "I deeply regret my actions."
The final hearing took place on the morning of October 23rd at 11:30 a.m. in the Criminal Division 11 of the Incheon District Court, presided over by Judge Kim Saet-byul. Park faced charges of defamation and insult under the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection.
Park appeared in court wearing all black, including black glasses. When the judge asked if there were any changes to her name or address, Park stood up and replied, "No changes."
The prosecution asked the court to impose a four-year prison sentence and a fine of 211,421,152 KRW. They argued, "The defendant insulted the victims five times and actively spread false information through videos, damaging their reputations."
The prosecutors further explained, "She disrupted the victims' agency management activities, operated a paid membership program, and repeatedly created content focused on the victims' appearance, personality, and personal relationships, showing the severity of her actions."
"Taldoc Camp" had previously spread false information about celebrities such as Suho from EXO and Karina from aespa, which was used to generate profits. In response, SM Entertainment, their agency, pursued legal action.
Park's attorney admitted to all the charges, saying, "The defendant's actions were not carried out with full intent to profit but were acts of implicit negligence. She has also been participating in volunteer work and receiving psychological treatment."
The defense added, "We are attempting to reach a settlement with the victims. Though negotiations have been difficult, even in civil mediation, we will continue to pursue an agreement."
Park's attorney requested flexibility for the sentencing date, citing Park's upcoming surgery in mid-November. When the judge asked if the surgery would affect her attendance in court, Park responded, "It will not."
The attorney emphasized Park's efforts to contribute positively to society, stating, "Since the incident, the defendant has been engaged in community service and is striving to make amends. We request the court to show leniency."
Park then read aloud from her letter of apology. "I sincerely apologize for causing significant harm to the victims and deeply regret my actions," she said. "I have looked at myself objectively and realized how much pain I caused."
She continued, "I have struggled with guilt and depressive thoughts. Despite my mistakes, I want to become someone who can positively contribute to society. Through volunteering, I've found positive energy by interacting with people outside of the internet."
Finally, Park reflected, "I was trapped in my own online world, which clouded my judgment. From now on, I will live with responsibility and sincerely atone for my actions."
After the trial, reporters asked Park how she felt about the four-year prison sentence sought by the prosecution, but she declined to answer. Her attorney also commented briefly, saying, "Everything has been stated in court."
Park is also facing separate civil lawsuits for defamation from Starship Entertainment and Jang Won-young. Additionally, she was involved in a defamation case regarding Kang Daniel and was fined 10 million KRW in a first-instance ruling last month.
The sentencing for this case is scheduled for December 18th.