Shin Sae-kyeong’s Family-Threatening Troll Sentenced to Eight Months in Prison on Appeal

Cyberattacks Hiding Behind Anonymity: Court Reaffirms Zero-Tolerance Policy

The person who spent years maliciously slandering and threatening actor 'Shin Sae-kyeong' has been sentenced to prison on appeal and taken into custody. The ruling is seen as a stern warning from the judiciary against cybercrimes that exploit online anonymity.

In an official statement on the 2nd, her agency, 'The Present Company', said, "A troll who repeatedly threatened and insulted our artist has been sentenced to 'eight months in prison' and 'taken into custody in court' in an appeal hearing at the Seoul Eastern District Court."

According to legal sources, the defendant repeatedly posted more than hundreds of insulting messages over about two months on anonymous online forums and other platforms. The defendant was also found guilty of writing threats to physically harm not only the actor but also her family.

During the trial, the defendant appealed for leniency, citing personal health problems including depression and submitting letters of apology. But the appeals court dismissed the defendant’s claims, saying, "There was no legitimate motive other than to attract the attention of internet users and vent his anger." The ruling reflects the court’s decision to give greater weight to the victim’s psychological distress and the malicious nature of the crime than to the perpetrator’s one-sided excuses.

Attorney Kim Ji-ae of Ascendant Yulbon, legal representative for Shin Sae-kyeong, stressed, "There is no justification for using the anonymity of online spaces to violate someone’s dignity and threaten their daily life." 'The Present Company' also said it would continue to take firm legal action, without settlements or leniency, against all illegal acts that violate the personal rights of its artists.

Meanwhile, 'Shin Sae-kyeong' has confirmed her casting in 'HUMINT', the upcoming film by director Ryoo Seung-wan, and is expected to remain active in her acting career. With thorough protection from her agency and legal representatives, she is expected to be able to focus even more on her work.