Can you be sued for defaming virtual K-pop stars? South Korea court says yes
4 hours ago
- #virtual-idols
- #defamation
- #K-pop
- A South Korean court ruled that defaming virtual K-pop stars can lead to legal consequences.
- The court ordered a social media user to pay 500,000 won ($360) for derogatory remarks about virtual K-pop group Plave.
- Plave's members are animated and voiced by anonymous performers using motion-capture technology.
- The defendant argued comments targeted fictional characters, but the court ruled attacks on avatars also harm real people behind them.
- Plave's agency, Vlast, sought higher damages but was awarded 100,000 won per performer; they have appealed the decision.
- The case sets a precedent for defamation involving virtual avatars in South Korea's entertainment industry.
- Virtual K-pop idols like Plave are gaining popularity, with over one million YouTube followers and major music awards.
- Advocates say virtual idols reduce pressure on human idols facing intense personal scrutiny.