Korean YouTuber Cho Debom Announces Plan to Renounce Citizenship Amid False Corpse Claims Investigation

YouTuber Cho Debom, who runs the Korean‑language channel with about 950,000 subscribers, posted videos claiming that dozens of half‑body corpses had been found in South Korea and that tens of thousands of people were missing. The claims were later verified as false, prompting South Korean police to open an investigation for violating the Telecommunications Basic Act. Authorities allege he earned roughly 350,000 won (about $380) in advertising revenue from the misinformation and have sought pre‑emptive seizure of those proceeds.

In a recent video, Cho announced he will renounce his Korean nationality and apply for Japanese naturalisation, saying he has wanted to become Japanese for seven years. He warned that a criminal conviction could block his naturalisation, as Japanese law scrutinises applicants with criminal records. The case highlights concerns in South Korea about the impact of false information on national image and foreign investment.

The investigation remains ongoing, with no court ruling yet on the charges.