Online trolls fined for defaming singer IU

Singer IU. Capture from IU's Instagram

By Dong Sun-hwa

Online trolls have been fined for insulting and defaming singer IU, according to her management company EDAM Entertainment, Wednesday.

“Some attackers, who heavily slandered IU and posted too many malicious comments about her, were indicted over insult and defamation,” the agency said. “Considering the gravity of the crime, the court slapped them with fines higher than what the prosecutor had sought.”

But EDAM did not reveal the exact amount.

The music label said investigation of the remaining attackers is under way.

“We will continue to take strong action (against the attackers), without seeking any amicable settlement,” it said.

EDAM also asked IU's followers to tell the company if they saw someone leaving malicious comments.

IU, whose real name is Lee Ji-eun, debuted in 2008 with the mini-album "Lost and Found." Dubbed one of Korea's most successful female soloists, the singer dropped a string of hits including "Good Day" (2010) and "Palette” (2017). She also has been forging an acting career, starring in dramas such as “Hotel del Luna” (2019).