A 30-year-old woman, known only as A, has been fined 3 million won after making defamatory comments about singer and actress IU.

On December 3, the Criminal Division 16 of the Seoul Central District Court sentenced A to pay a 3 million won fine after she was charged with defamation.

A was accused of posting four negative comments about IU in April 2022, criticizing IU’s statements, clothing, and singing abilities. The prosecution had initially requested a 4-month prison sentence for A.

A's defense lawyer acknowledged the allegations, confirming that A admitted to posting the comments but argued that they were just her opinions about a public figure, not meant to defame her. The defense insisted that the comments did not qualify as defamation.

In her final statement, A explained, "I suffer from mental illness, and my language skills have declined, which led to poorly written comments. I didn’t mean to hurt IU’s reputation. I was just expressing my personal preferences." She also expressed regret, saying, "I will be more careful with my words in the future when discussing public figures. Please consider this case fairly."

Before the verdict was given, A attended the hearing wearing a black coat. The court asked if she had come to an agreement with IU, but A confirmed that no agreement had been made.

The court concluded, "Looking at the overall context, the comments went beyond expressing an opinion and became an insulting and disrespectful attack. This is considered defamation, as per the Supreme Court’s ruling." The court also took into account A’s past criminal record related to defamation, which had previously led to a fine.

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NewJeans' Minji touched fans' hearts with a handwritten letter on her birthday — even while the group is currently unable to promote due to legal issues.

On May 7, Minji celebrated her birthday by sharing a heartfelt message on the group’s personal SNS account, which the members opened themselves to stay connected with fans.

Minji began her letter with honesty, writing, “I think I’m living a busier life than I expected. When I finally looked up, it was already May, and it was my birthday.”

She admitted that she had a lot she wanted to say, but her thoughts felt “messy.” Still, her message to fans was clear, “I just hope that I, our members, and Bunnies can all be happy. Happiness is the biggest goal in my life.”

Minji then opened up about her personal journey and struggles, saying, “I sometimes think that running toward my happiness by doing what I love might look foolish to others. But isn’t giving up your happiness now for the sake of a future that might not even come… too harsh on yourself?”

Despite everything, she ended on a hopeful note, “I really miss the times when we shared our feelings through the good music we made together. But I always look forward to what’s ahead."

She added, "We didn’t stop here, and we’re not going to stop! It might look like we’re standing still, but I believe we’re growing deeper.”

Her message comes during a difficult time for NewJeans. The group announced last year that they were cutting ties with ADOR, their original agency, after trust was broken. They later began working independently under the new name ‘NJZ’.

However, ADOR responded with legal action — claiming the exclusive contract with NewJeans was still valid and asking the court to stop the group from promoting or signing deals.

The court sided with ADOR and granted an injunction, forcing NewJeans to pause their activities. Their appeal was rejected, and they’ve now filed a second appeal.

Through it all, Minji’s message proves one thing — even when forced to stop, NewJeans' hearts are still moving forward.

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