Son Dam-bi Wins 500,000 Won in Lawsuit Against Trolls

Singer and actress Son Dam-bi has been awarded 500,000 won in compensation from online trolls. According to a report from Herald Economy on January 7, the Seoul Western District Court has ordered two trolls to pay 300,000 won and 200,000 won respectively after a defamation lawsuit. Son Dam-bi faced malicious comments following her husband’s brother being charged with attempted sexual assault and illegal filming, prompting her to take legal action. The court acknowledged that the comments violated Son’s personal rights, partially accepting her claims. Meanwhile, Lee Gyu-hyeon received a four-year prison sentence for related charges.

This ruling marks an important precedent for celebrities combating malicious comments online. Son Dam-bi's proactive legal measures signal a shift in how public figures address psychological burdens, potentially encouraging other celebrities to speak out against similar issues. The problem of online trolling extends beyond personal anguish, becoming a societal concern that affects the broader entertainment community.

Recent years have seen several entertainers either becoming reclusive or facing severe mental health challenges due to negative online interactions. Son’s path through legal channels showcases the possibility of reclaiming a standard life amid such turmoil, potentially inspiring future celebrities to advocate for their rights against online harassment.

Furthermore, given the normalization of content consumption through music and video, the responsibilities of role models become increasingly pronounced. As public figures continue facing harsh scrutiny, it is essential for them to demonstrate a sense of social obligation, prompting audiences to reconsider how they view and support their favorite stars in an unforgiving digital landscape.

This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.

Photo: DB