IU Cyberbully Fined Again: Shocking Details of Repeat Defamation Exposed

A woman in her 40s has been fined for a second time for making malicious online comments targeting South Korean singer and actress IU, the Seoul Central District Court confirmed on Wednesday.

As per KBiZoom, Judge Lim Jeong-bin of Criminal Division 20 ordered the defendant, identified only by her surname Kim, to pay a fine of 3 million won (approximately $2,200) for defamation.

The ruling comes after Kim was indicted for posting a sexually explicit and defamatory comment on a major online portal site in February 2024.

The post that drew widespread condemnation carried the incendiary accusation, "Did she bribe the judge?"—a comment that the court found was directed and damaging.

"The defendant clearly targeted the victim with the comment," Judge Lim said in court. "The statement is deemed damaging to the victim's social evaluation and thus constitutes defamation."

Kim denied wrongdoing, arguing the remarks were not aimed at a specific individual and did not harm IU's public image.

The court rejected the defense, pointing to both the content and the context of the message.

What has shocked many observers is Kim's prior history of similar offenses.

In December 2024, she was fined the same amount for four separate comments criticizing IU's appearance and vocal abilities.

During that case, Kim pleaded for leniency, citing mental health issues that she claimed impaired her ability to express herself.

However, the court stated that the February 2024 comment had been found on the internet before she was even charged in the earlier case, suggesting a pattern of behavior rather than an isolated act of misconduct.

Kim has not offered an apology to IU, and the court emphasized her continued lack of remorse.

The case has reignited debate over online harassment and cyberbullying in South Korea, particularly against public figures.

"This ruling is an important reminder that repeated cyber defamation won't be taken lightly," said a fan on social media, echoing widespread support for the court's decision.

IU, known for her long-standing popularity as both a singer and actress, has not publicly commented on the case.

The ruling highlights South Korea's continuing campaign against cyberbullying and its effort to protect public figures from constant online harassment.

Originally published on Kdrama Stars