SM Entertainment Takes Strong Legal Action Against RIIZE Defamation and Privacy Breaches
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| RIIZE: Courtesy of Instagram |
SM Entertainment has announced comprehensive legal action against individuals targeting K-pop group RIIZE with malicious posts, defamation, and privacy violations. The entertainment giant revealed it has filed complaints against individuals who spread false information about RIIZE on various online platforms, marking a significant escalation in protecting their artists from online harassment.
The legal crackdown specifically targets those who impersonated RIIZE members' acquaintances and continuously spread false information across social media platforms. SM Entertainment confirmed that several individuals have already faced consequences, with some receiving fines and other punishments after being referred to prosecution last year. The company's statement emphasized their zero-tolerance approach to malicious activities affecting the popular boy group.
Privacy Breaches and Business Interference
Beyond defamation cases, SM Entertainment is addressing serious privacy violations that have disrupted RIIZE's professional activities. The company revealed they are taking action against individuals who accessed members' personal information to interfere with schedules, including changing or canceling airline tickets. These actions constitute business obstruction and may result in damage claims against perpetrators.
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The legal measures extend to multiple online platforms where malicious content has appeared. SM Entertainment is pursuing both criminal and civil lawsuits against users who have posted harmful content on DC Inside, Women's Generation, Nate Pan, Instiz, Theqoo, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. The company emphasized that these actions apply to both domestic and international users, demonstrating the global scope of their legal response.
Comprehensive Response to Online Harassment
The entertainment company has implemented a systematic approach to combat online harassment through fan reports and continuous monitoring of malicious community posts. SM Entertainment warned against spreading false information about management staff, stating they are collecting evidence for additional lawsuits. The company's statement reinforced their commitment to protecting both RIIZE members and associated personnel from defamatory attacks.
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This legal action reflects a broader trend in the K-pop industry where entertainment companies are increasingly using legal measures to protect their artists from online harassment and defamation. K-pop labels are taking more aggressive legal action against internet trolls to protect their stars against defamation, signaling a shift toward stronger artist protection measures in the digital age.
SM Entertainment concluded their statement by emphasizing their unwavering commitment to responding strongly to all illegal acts targeting RIIZE without leniency. The company urged the public to avoid engaging in activities that could result in legal punishment, highlighting the serious consequences of malicious online behavior in the K-pop industry.