16-year-old South Korean trot singer Kim Da Hyun, who gained popularity through talent shows like 'Miss Trot 2,' faced online harassment from an older individual. The offender, identified as Mr. A and aged 58, was handed a suspended prison sentence by the Daegu District Court’s 6th Criminal Division for defamatory comments directed towards Kim Da Hyun and her father, Kim Bong Gon, during the period between July and November 2023.
Mr. A posted a total of 73 insulting remarks about Kim Da Hyun and 67 about her father on an online viewer forum of a broadcaster. The court found Mr. A guilty of defamation through insult and highlighted the significant emotional distress caused to the victims by his actions, particularly considering Kim Da Hyun's young age.
Kim Da Hyun’s legal representative, Kim Kyung Eun from Inui Law Firm, emphasized the importance of protecting the personal rights of public figures, especially young celebrities and their families. She urged for responsible and respectful use of freedom of expression to prevent the propagation of harmful content that could have a lasting impact on individuals in the entertainment industry.