[Photo by Yoo Dae-gil = dbeorlf123@ajunews.com]
IU has taken a brave action against cyberbullying, risking her career, to sue 11 online users for slandering the singer-actor with malicious rumors, sexual harassment, and other types of hate comments.
IU's action is rare in South Korea's entertainment scene. Some artists have taken legal actions against cyberbullies only to show mercy and retreat after receiving apologies. IU's agency, LOEN Entertainment, said 11 online users have been fined for defaming the 23-year-old. It promised to sue other cyberbullies
Online abusing against IU started two years ago when female-centered online communities blindly criticized her for using sexual metaphors in her song "Twenty Three". An online onslaught of abuse got worse after IU revealed her love affair with Chang-Ki-ha, a 34-year-old retro-rock singer-songwriter.
Cyberbullying in South Korea's entertainment circle has been a major issue in recent years. An online attack on female entertainers has led some to end their career or commit suicide.
Recently, Singer-actor Sulli and Kim Yoo-jung, a 17-year-old actress, has been the target of constant and coordinated online bullying. Kim was hospitalized in December due to stress-induced shock. Fans have bashed Kim for showing distracted movements during a promotional event for her new movie.
reporter
Park Sae-jin
swatchsjp@ajunews.com
