Users Penalized for Posting Malicious Content Aimed at Girl Group Newjeans

Legal Consequences for Malicious Online Activity Against NewJeans

In recent months, South Korean courts have initiated legal proceedings against several online users embroiled in posting defamatory content aimed at the K-pop group NewJeans. This marks a significant step in the ongoing fight against cyberbullying and online harassment within the entertainment industry.

Incidents Leading to Court Actions

In October 2025, the Busan District Prosecutors’ Office filed a summary indictment against a woman, referred to as A, for her role in spreading malicious content. She faces a fine of 700, 000 Korean won (around $500) based on charges of insult. Allegations against A include the egregious act of digitally altering images of NewJeans members and disseminating misinformation via social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).

Meanwhile, the Daegu District Court’s Western Branch took action against a man identified as B, who faced a penalty of 200, 000 Korean won (approximately $140) for consistently posting derogatory remarks about NewJeans on the online community FMKorea during the same timeframe, as reported by allkpop.

Deepfake Technology Misuse

A significant case involved a man in his twenties, who was fined 15 million Korean won (nearly $10, 300) by the Pohang Branch of the Daegu District Court in November 2025. This individual was convicted for the creation and distribution of inappropriate deepfake videos that featured the faces of NewJeans members Hae-rin, Ha-ni, and Min-ji in compromising situations. The court mandated him to undergo 40 hours in a sexual violence treatment program as part of his sentence, highlighting the serious nature of his actions.

Community Response and Legal Actions

These legal proceedings underscore the increasing vigilance of NewJeans’ management company, ADOR, and their dedicated fanbase, known as Team Bunnies. As of 2024, Team Bunnies committed to taking legal action against individuals responsible for defaming the group or spreading false information online. Their proactive stance reflects a broader trend in South Korea’s entertainment scene, where fan communities increasingly engage in legal processes to safeguard their idols.

Between September and December of last year, approximately 44 individuals were referred to prosecutors by the fan movement after being accused of making harmful posts about NewJeans, emphasizing the growing willingness of fandoms to take a stand against online harassment.

Expert Insights on the Changing Landscape

Legal professionals observe that the landscape is shifting, with fandoms stepping beyond passive support and actively participating in legal measures against online abuse. Attorney Kim Taeyeon from Taeyeon Law Office highlighted that “In the past, protecting artists was largely seen as the sole responsibility of their agencies, but lately, fandoms have taken a more active role in filing complaints.” mk reported this development, showcasing the changing dynamics in artist protection.

ADOR’s Commitment to Online Safety

In a statement, ADOR confirmed its ongoing efforts to monitor online platforms globally, addressing rights violations against NewJeans members decisively. Their rigorous approach includes taking legal actions against any form of harmful behavior targeting the group.

This commitment not only supports NewJeans members but also contributes to a safer environment in the digital space for all artists and their fans.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAAf8s8GMJQ

Netizens fined for repeatedly posting malicious content targeting NewJeans (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FAAf8s8GMJQ)

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