Baek Ji Young spoke honestly about the emotional damage caused by harmful online comments and revealed that she has taken legal action against Internet trolls in the past.
On June 30, the singer appeared on YTN Radio’s “Wise Radio Life” program, where she spoke about mental health, celebrity struggles and the growing impact of online hate.
According to AllKPop, during the interview, Baek Ji Young introduced the support group “GEM”, short for “Gatekeepers for Entertainers’ Mental Health”. The group includes several famous celebrities, such as Shin Ae Ra, Lee Sung Mi and Song Eun Yi.
According to Baek Ji Young, the group was created after the members realized that they were attending too many funerals of other artists who had taken their own lives.
Over the past three or four years, members have been researching trauma and reaching out to artists who may be struggling emotionally, even if they aren’t personally close to them. Mental health experts also work with the group to guide their efforts.
Discussing online hate, Baek Ji Young admitted that it is impossible to completely stop malicious comments. However, he explained that he decided to take legal action when comments targeted his family or became too personal. He stressed that punishment for harmful online behavior should not be taken lightly.
“The punishment itself, whether it’s a fine or a recommendation, carries significant weight,” he said.
Baek Ji Young warns trolls
The singer also expressed concern that some people who receive legal sanctions for harmful comments then brag about it online. He warned that these punishments can seriously affect a person’s social life and future.
Baek Ji Young’s comments quickly gained attention online as many celebrities in South Korea have recently spoken out about mental health issues related to public criticism and online attacks. The singer has also previously spoken about difficult times in her personal life.
In a recent YouTube video, Baek Ji Young and her husband, actor Jung Seok Won, shared memories of their secret trysts days before going public with their relationship, SportsChosun reported.
The couple recalled dealing with severe flood damage at Baek Ji Young’s luxury residence in Gangnam years ago. Since they had not confirmed their relationship at that time, they even covered their faces while moving their belongings and staying together in a hotel.
“We had to be aware of the people around us,” Jung Seok Won shared about the stressful situation.
Baek Ji Young and Jung Seok Won officially confirmed their relationship in 2011 and got married in 2013. Now they have a daughter together.
