Here’s Why The Truth Can Also Be Considered Slander By Korean Law … A Professional Lawyer Weighs In On Why It Is Better For Agencies To Deny Scandals

A constitutional petition was submitted previously to re-evaluate the laws against defamation and slander.

According to the original law, as article 307 clause one states, “A person who defamed or slanders someone by specifying facts in vain shall be sentenced to up to 2 years in prison or a fine of up to 5 million won.” In addition, clause two states that if a person slanders someone by specifying falsehoods in vain can face up to 5 years in prison, suspension for 10 years or a fine of 10 million won.”

Many have found clause one unfair in particular, as truths can also be considered slander and defamation, if stated without any particular reason. However, the petition was eventually overturned on February 25, 2021, and the law and punishment remains the same.

A professional lawyer specializing in school violence cases shared with the media that it is more beneficial for agencies to deny all allegations. Lawyer Jeon Su Min stated, “It is not guaranteed that just because they admit to accusations, that they will be forgiven. Looking at the example of the volleyball players, they faced retirement and reflection instantaneously and was forced to put everything away. So (agencies) have no choice but to deny everything from their point of view.”

With the influx of sudden accusations against celebrities, many are tossed into confusion as the lines between black and white blur.