On July 16, Song Ha Yoon released a statement through his legal representative, Jieum Law Firm, apologizing for the concern caused by the controversy. “I sincerely apologize for causing concern and concern to many people. I did not want to engage in excessive media responses or a battle of public opinion regarding a case that is still under investigation, and I am calmly awaiting the final decision of the prosecutor’s office.”
She added that she felt compelled to clarify the facts after what she described as another round of inaccurate information circulating. “Recently, false information has been spread again, so I have no choice but to correct the basic facts. I would appreciate it if everyone could wait until the final conclusion is reached.”
Song Ha Yoon’s legal team explained that the accuser, identified only as A, had continued to maintain that the police had previously cleared him of the charge.
According to the actress’ lawyers, that claim was based on an initial decision in February not to postpone the case, which was later overturned. Following a request for additional investigations by the prosecutor’s office, the police reopened the case and referred A to the prosecution on 16 June, concluding that the criminal charges were substantiated.
Her legal representatives further stated that A continued to spread false information about both the actress and the ongoing investigation, causing further damage to Song Ha Yoon’s reputation. The legal team said they are considering further legal action against any attempts to distort the investigation or mislead the public.
The controversy first erupted in April 2024, when A appeared on JTBC Crime boss and accused Song Ha Yoon of assaulting them while they were in high school.
A claimed that in August 2004, Song Ha Yoon, then a year ahead in school, called them to a playground and slapped them repeatedly for about 90 minutes without explanation. The accuser also alleged that Song Ha Yoon was forcibly transferred to another school after being involved in a gang attack before graduation.
From the beginning, Song Ha Yoon has strongly denied any wrongdoing. His agency had previously stated that:
- He had never met the accuser.
- He never committed any act of school violence against them.
- She was never forcibly relocated due to bullying.
In July 2024, his legal representatives revealed that they had presented official public documents, notarized witness statements and other evidence to investigators. They also said that Song Ha Yoon’s former teacher confirmed that he had never heard of any forced school transfers linked to school violence.
Song Ha Yoon subsequently filed a criminal complaint against A on charges including defamation, business obstruction and intimidation.
Although living abroad, A later traveled to South Korea to cooperate with investigators. At the time, A criticized Song Ha Yoon’s decision to take legal action, saying: “I couldn’t believe the alleged perpetrator was suing the victim.” A also announced plans to file a ₩10 billion (about $7.3 million) damages lawsuit and pursue a false complaint against the actress.
Although the police have now referred the case involving A to prosecutors after overturning their previous decision, the prosecution has not yet issued its final ruling.
Until prosecutors complete their review, the legal dispute between Song Ha Yoon and his accuser will remain ongoing.
Sources: Nate News
