The controversy surrounding actor Lee Yi-kyung continues to grow. On November 19, his agency Sangyoung ENT issued a 3rd press release to provide an update on current legal proceedings.
The affair erupted last October, when a person identified as "A" claimed on his social networks that he wanted to "reveal the real Lee Yi-kyung", by broadcasting captures of allegedly private conversations and compromising photos. These publications quickly sparked controversy. But after the agency's official response, the individual went back on his words, presenting apologizing and assuring us that the images had been generated by artificial intelligence. All posts were then deleted.
On November 19, however, "A" abruptly changed his story, claiming that his accusations were real and that the alleged evidence had not been fabricated. Lee Yi-kyung's agency reacted immediately.
The agency confirms that the legal action is on course
In its press release, Sangyoung ENT recalls that it filed a complaint on November 3 for blackmail, intimidation and online defamation. The actor has already been interviewed by investigators, and the procedure is now in the hands of the authorities. The agency warns, however, that the investigation could take some time, in particular to identify the author of the publications. Here is the full press release:
"Hello, this is Sangyoung ENT.
As previously announced, we have taken legal action against the author of the publications concerning actor Lee Yi-kyung for blackmail (intimidation) and defamation under the Information and Communication Network Act.
As soon as we became aware of the case on November 3, we immediately filed a complaint, and the actor has already completed his statement to the investigators. We understand, however, that it will take some time to identify the respondent, conduct the authorities' investigation and officially conclude the case.
We monitor the progress of the proceedings through our legal counsel, and cooperate fully to achieve a rapid outcome.
Due to the malicious actions of the original author and the people who relayed this content, the damage suffered by our actor and our company is serious. As these acts are punishable, whether committed in Korea or abroad, we will continue to respond firmly, without any leniency, even if it takes time.
We review all reports sent to our official e-mail address via the Sangyoung ENT account. We therefore encourage you to continue to report any malicious publications to us.
Thank you."
