The individual convicted of repeatedly threatening and harassing actress Shin Se Kyung online has received an eight-month prison sentence after an appeals court upheld the punishment imposed in the first trial.
According to Shin Se Kyung's agency, The Present Company, the Seoul Eastern District Court maintained the prison sentence during the appeal proceedings. The defendant, identified only as A, was also taken into custody in court.
The agency previously announced the ruling in a statement on October 2, confirming that the defendant had been sentenced to eight months in prison for repeated threats and malicious online harassment targeting the actress.
According to the court's findings, the defendant used anonymous online accounts to repeatedly post insulting comments and threatening messages directed at Shin Se Kyung, her family, acquaintances, and fans.
Court documents reportedly showed that the individual posted hundreds of offensive messages over approximately two months, including threats suggesting possible physical harm to the actress's family.
During the first trial, the court imposed a prison sentence after determining that the offenses were repeated, planned, and involved serious threats.
The defendant appealed the ruling and requested leniency, citing depression, personal circumstances, and remorse.
However, the appeals court did not consider these arguments sufficient to reduce the sentence.
The court noted that the defendant had failed to adequately address the emotional distress and suffering caused to the victim.
Following the ruling, The Present Company reiterated its commitment to protecting Shin Se Kyung from illegal online behavior.
The agency stated, "We will continue to respond firmly under a zero-tolerance policy against threats, malicious defamation, insults, and other illegal acts that violate the rights of our artists."
It added, "No matter how long it takes, we will pursue those responsible and ensure that they face the appropriate legal consequences."
The appeals court's decision maintains the eight-month prison sentence against the individual, highlighting the legal consequences of repeated online threats and harassment.
The Present Company has also made clear that it intends to continue taking legal action against similar offenses targeting Shin Se Kyung and its artists.
