A male contestant (A) from SBS Plus·ENA reality show 'I'm Solo' requested a closed trial following his indictment on charges of sexually assaulting a woman in her 20s.

Closed Court Session Approved Due to Victim Protection

The Seoul Western District Court, Criminal Division 11 (Presiding Judge Kim Woo-hyun), held the first hearing on August 29. A's defense attorney requested a closed trial, citing concerns that media coverage and public attention could distort proceedings.

The court clarified that a closed trial cannot be granted solely based on the defendant's concerns. "The application right exists not for the defendant but when there are concerns about the victim's privacy," the judge explained.

However, prosecutors highlighted the risk of secondary trauma for the victim, noting that CCTV footage capturing the crime in detail would be presented as key evidence. Considering this, the trial was conducted behind closed doors. The court emphasized, "If the video is shown during the hearing, media coverage could cause secondary harm to the victim."

Incident Details

The alleged assault occurred on June 21 around 3:30 a.m. in a parking lot in Seogyo-dong, Mapo-gu, Seoul. A warrant for A's detention was issued, and he was transferred to the prosecution while in custody.

The Seoul Western District Prosecutors' Office formally indicted him last month on charges of quasi-rape, which involves sexual acts against a person unable to resist or unconscious.

A previously appeared on 'I'm Solo' and its follow-up show, 'I'm Solo, Love Continues'.