YouTuber Kwon Young-chan referred to prosecutors for defaming actor Kim Soo-hyun

Comedian-turned-YouTuber Kwon Young-chan has been referred to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office on charges of violating the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection, specifically for defamation against actor Kim Soo-hyun.

Following an investigation by the Seocho Police Station, authorities determined that Kwon broadcasted false information regarding Kim's past relationship with the late Kim Sae-ron. The police concluded that Kwon acted with the intent to slander Kim, noting that he presented the claims as verified facts despite lacking specific evidence beyond materials provided by the deceased's family.

Kwon has denied the allegations, claiming he was merely explaining general grooming tactics and had included disclaimers that the content did not specifically refer to the individuals named. While some charges were forwarded to the prosecution, the police decided not to send other aspects of the complaint due to insufficient evidence.

Separately, the Seoul Seongdong Police Station recently reached a decision not to transfer charges against Kim Soo-hyun regarding allegations of violating the Child Welfare Act, citing a lack of objective evidence and concerns regarding the authenticity of certain recordings provided by the deceased's family.