IU is continuing her legal battle against online malicious commenters.

According to EDAM Entertainment, IU filed criminal complaints and civil lawsuits against a total of 96 individuals last year through a law firm. The defendants posted defamatory and abusive content about the artist across multiple online platforms, including Naver, Daum, Nate Pann, Threads, Instagram, and YouTube.

Fines, Suspended Sentences, and Court Rulings

Several perpetrators have already received legal penalties. Court decisions included seven fines, one case involving a fine and mandatory completion of a sexual violence treatment program, three conditional suspensions of indictment requiring educational courses, and one case resulting in a suspended prison sentence with probation.

Those who continued posting malicious content even after the initial complaints faced additional charges. Given the severity of the offenses, formal trials were held instead of summary indictments.

In particular, a court fined one individual 5 million KRW for repeatedly spreading false claims labeling IU a "spy," ruling that the ongoing dissemination of such allegations constituted defamation.

Another individual who accused IU of plagiarism and reported her for alleged copyright violations was countersued. Following legal proceedings, that person was ordered to pay 30 million KRW in damages.

Strong Stance Against Rumors and Threats

In other cases involving criminal association rumors, nationality-related falsehoods, and sexually harassing posts, the court handed down a 10-month prison sentence, suspended for two years.

IU's agency is also pursuing legal action against so-called "cyber wreckers." After identifying circumstances of rumor dissemination through YouTube, the agency requested official investigations.

Offline misconduct has also occurred. Individuals reportedly visited IU or her family, made threats to personal safety, and demanded money. Police investigations are currently underway.

EDAM Entertainment stated, "We will take strong legal action, including criminal complaints, without any leniency against acts that threaten the artist's safety." The agency added that any attempts to approach the artist, her family, or related personnel must cease immediately, emphasizing continued strict legal 대응.

Meanwhile, IU is set to return to television with MBC's upcoming drama "The 21st Century Grand Prince's Wife," scheduled to premiere in April.