Gong Yoo Defamation Case: Woman Receives Suspended Sentence for False Harassment Claims

Management Soop—representing Gong Yoo—has taken a firm stance against false rumors and malicious online defamation. In April 2019, they filed a lawsuit against an individual who had persistently harassed Gong Yoo with unfounded accusations, resulting in a fine for the perpetrator.([turn0search0][turn0search1]).

Recently, a woman falsely accused Gong Yoo of harassment. After investigation, the court found her claims were baseless, concluding she had knowingly spread falsehoods that damaged his reputation. She was convicted under South Korea’s criminal defamation law and received a suspended prison sentence, though fines and probation details remain private.

South Korea treats defamation, especially with false facts, extremely seriously. Even statements believed to be true can be punishable if they’re not in the “public interest.” False claims can result in up to 5 years imprisonment or a fine up to 10 million won, plus suspension of professional qualifications.([turn0reddit22][turn0search8]).

• Sentenced with suspension: The court upheld a sentence without immediate jail time but with legal repercussions.
  
  

• Affirms strict defamation enforcement: Even false personal allegations can carry significant consequences—especially with malicious intent to harm.
  
  

• Continued image protection by Management Soop: The agency’s legal vigilance reinforces accountability for defamatory claims.
  
  

Reddit and online communities frequently discuss how defamation laws in Korea differ from Western norms—focusing on protecting personal honor over broad freedom of speech. One user explained:

“Even if something is 100% true, it is a crime if shared without public-interest justification.”([turn0reddit22])

And another pointed to legal thresholds:

“Publicly alleging false facts can lead up to five years jail or suspension of qualifications.”([turn0reddit13])