Singer IU is taking strong action against online harassment.

On November 11, his agency communicated on the current status of the legal proceedings.

EDAM Entertainment detailed the legal measures taken over the past two years (2023-2024). The agency collaborated with a law firm to collect evidence of malicious posts targeting IU and filed lawsuits accordingly.

The agency focused on significant cases that met the criteria for criminal prosecution, including threats, insults, defamation (including plagiarism accusations), death threats, invasion of privacy, sexual harassment, distribution of obscene material, and the creation and distribution of deepfake content.

To date, more than 180 individuals have been identified as defendants. The agency said, "We continue to pursue additional legal actions," emphasizing that the process is ongoing.

IU representatives reported six cases that resulted in fines (summary orders). Three cases received conditional non-prosecution with mandatory education, and one case involved conditional non-prosecution with probationary orientation.

The prosecution stressed that some individuals engaged in cyberbullying had shown particularly malicious intent, recommending fines of 3 million KRW for offenses such as spreading false information, defamation, sexual harassment, and death threats.

However, some defendants have contested the charges, leading to formal trials. The IU team noted: "The prosecution considered these acts to be serious, and legal proceedings are currently underway."

Additionally, continued harassment by some individuals has escalated to formal court hearings. The agency noted that personal information of overseas-based offenders has also been identified. This includes those who targeted IU with unfounded plagiarism accusations around April and May last year.

The agency revealed: "Among them is an individual suspected to be a former high school classmate of IU who, despite ongoing legal actions, continues to harass her."

"For those using foreign IP addresses or residing abroad, we have requested the cooperation of the relevant authorities," the agency added, mentioning that the investigation to trace these individuals has made substantial progress.

A netizen accused of spreading false spying allegations about IU has completed a preliminary investigation. However, delays were caused by the suspect's repeated refusal to appear before investigating authorities. The suspect has now been handed over to the prosecutor's office and is awaiting further action.

EDAM Entertainment stressed, “We have selected only the most serious cases of illegal activity and are pursuing criminal charges without leniency.” The agency warned that repeat offenses could result in increased penalties and noted, “We have documented and managed thousands of posts and comments that meet the criteria for defamation.”

The agency also disclosed a list of monitored online communities, including Nate Pann, Namuwiki, TheQoo, DC Inside (Drama Gallery/Male Celebrities Gallery), SoulDresser, Women's Generation, Ygosu, Instiz, Ilgan Best, and MLB Park.

In conclusion, the agency expressed concern over the continued distress suffered by IU and her fans due to malicious online content. “We will continue to respond firmly. It is time to put an end to illegal activities committed through online platforms,” they urged.

Meanwhile, the netizen who made the accusations against IU failed to appear at the first hearing of the damages trial held on July 24 at the Seoul Central District Court. The second hearing is scheduled for December 4.