On July 16, Song Ha Yoon released a statement through her legal representative, Law Firm Jieum, apologizing for the concern the controversy has caused. “I sincerely apologize for causing concern and worry to many people. I did not want to engage in excessive media responses or a battle of public opinion regarding a case that is still under investigation, and I am calmly waiting for the prosecution’s final decision.”
She added that she felt compelled to clarify the facts after what she described as another round of inaccurate information being circulated. “Recently, false information has once again been spread, so I have no choice but to correct the basic facts. I would appreciate it if everyone could wait until the final conclusion is reached.”
Song Ha Yoon’s legal team explained that the accuser, identified only as A, had continued to claim that police previously cleared them of wrongdoing.
According to the actress’s lawyers, that claim was based on an initial February decision not to refer the case, which was later overturned. Following a request for a supplementary investigation from prosecutors, police reopened the case and referred A to the prosecution on June 16, concluding that criminal charges were warranted.
Her legal representatives also alleged that A continued spreading false information about both the actress and the ongoing investigation, causing further damage to Song Ha Yoon’s reputation. The legal team said they are reviewing additional legal action against any attempts to distort the investigation or mislead the public.
The controversy first erupted in April 2024, when A appeared on JTBC’s Crime Chief and accused Song Ha Yoon of assaulting them while they were in high school.
A claimed that in August 2004, Song Ha Yoon then a year ahead in school called them to a playground and slapped them repeatedly for approximately 90 minutes without explanation. The accuser also alleged that Song Ha Yoon was forcibly transferred to another school after becoming involved in a group assault before graduation.
From the outset, Song Ha Yoon firmly denied every allegation. Her agency previously stated that:
- She had never met the accuser.
- She never committed any acts of school violence against them.
- She was never forcibly transferred because of bullying.
In July 2024, her legal representatives revealed they had submitted official public records, notarized witness statements, and other evidence to investigators. They also said Song Ha Yoon’s former homeroom teacher confirmed they had never heard of any forced school transfer related to school violence.
Song Ha Yoon subsequently filed criminal complaints against A on charges including defamation, obstruction of business, and intimidation.
Although living overseas, A later traveled to South Korea to cooperate with investigators. At the time, A criticized Song Ha Yoon’s decision to pursue legal action, saying: “I couldn’t believe the alleged perpetrator was suing the victim.” A also announced plans to file a ₩10 billion (approximately US$7.3 million) damages lawsuit and pursue a false accusation complaint against the actress.
While the police have now referred the case involving A to prosecutors after reversing their earlier decision, the prosecution has not yet issued its final ruling.
Until prosecutors complete their review, the legal dispute between Song Ha Yoon and her accuser remains ongoing.
Sources: 네이트 뉴스
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