K-pop group IVE has declared war on slanderous rumors, a move that is garnering support within the industry.
On the 25th, Starship Entertainment, the group's agency, announced its strategy to legally confront infringement of its artists' rights. This includes taking a firm stand against malicious defamation, false information, personal attacks, and libelous posts and comments circulated online and on social media platforms.
Starship said, "In October 2022, we sued chronic cyberbullies, leading to their conviction that resulted in six months imprisonment, employment restrictions, and a listing on sexual offense sites. From November 2022, we've been carrying out civil and criminal lawsuits against 'anti-fan camps' through the law firm Liu, including lawsuits overseas."
In May 2023, they received a court order in the U.S. for information provision, and in July 2023, significant information regarding the operator of the 'anti-fan camp' was acquired from Google's U.S. headquarters. However, around the time when Google notified the operator about the information provision order, the 'anti-fan camp' claimed they were suddenly hacked, their existing videos were deleted, the account itself disappeared, and an apology notice was posted.
Starship commented, "It is a known fact that the 'anti-fan camp' has continuously spread false information about our artists, particularly members of IVE, causing serious libel and disruption to our business operations." They emphasized, "Regardless of the authenticity and sincerity of the 'anti-fan camp's' apology, we will pursue legal responsibility for past illegal actions through ongoing lawsuits. We're currently in the process of verifying additional personal information of 'cyber slander' operators, including the 'anti-fan camp.'"
Starship is taking a proactive stance to protect its artists as stated. This involves safeguarding artists from indiscriminate spread of false information and defamation reliant on the anonymity of the internet. While there have been many cases in the past where identity verification of 'cyber slander' operators could not be achieved leading to halted cases, Starship emphasized taking measures to ascertain identities and pursue responsibility. Their strategy is to prevent additional harm through strong responses for the protection of their artists and to prevent recurrence.
With their repeated emphasis and declaration of war against cyber slander, Starship's efforts are being supported within the industry. Many artists suffer from such attacks, and Starship's proactive response is being seen as a good example.
Numerous artists have been tormented by malicious attacks, libelous false information dissemination, and rumors online and on social media. Beyond crossing the line into defamation and insult, causing mental distress, such actions can also tarnish their image. There's no reason that celebrities should endure all this solely because of their public persona. With the severity of these offenses escalating, there is a strong need for more resolute responses to protect artists. Fans are also showing support for measures aimed at safeguarding their favorite artists.
