Prosecutors have sought a four-year prison sentence for disgraced YouTuber Sojang.
On October 22, Sojang had admitted to all charges and said he was “thinking deeply”.
Sojang was also indicted on charges of insult and defamation under the Law on Promotion of the Use of Information and Communication Networks and Protection of Information.
Sojang appeared in all-black attire to the court and confirmed that “nothing had changed” about her details or address, the Dispatch reported.
The court then outlined the charges, citing five cases of spreading false information, damaging reputation and interfering with celebrities’ activities.
The YouTuber had previously leaked unsubstantiated information regarding EXO Suho and aespa Karina. His lawyer then shared that Sojang had acknowledged all of the allegations before adding, “His actions were not intentional but rather involuntary and not solely for financial gain.”
The lawyer also shared that Sojang is currently focusing her energy on volunteer work and receiving mental health treatment. Furthermore, a settlement was attempted with the victims and Sojang was mediated in the civil court.
Despite efforts, the lawyer shared that it was difficult to reach an agreement. The representative also asked the court for leeway for Sojang as the YouTuber has surgery scheduled in November.
Sojang then responded that her circumstances would not prevent her from attending court. Subsequently, the prosecution imposed a four-year prison sentence on Sojang, along with a hefty fine of 211 million won ($153 million).
The court then highlighted that Sojang had actively produced fake videos and created a paid subscription system to incite hatred about the victims’ appearance, character and relationships.
Sojang read his reflection: “I sincerely apologize for causing great harm to the victims and am reflecting deeply.”