Several online users who repeatedly posted malicious comments targeting NewJeans have been handed fines, marking a notable outcome of fan-led legal action against online abuse.

According to legal sources on January 6, the Busan District Prosecutors’ Office summarily indicted a woman identified as A in October last year on charges of insult, seeking a fine of 700,000 won. A court ruling has yet to be finalized.

A is accused of maliciously editing photos of NewJeans members and spreading false information on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter).

In a separate case, the Daegu District Court’s Seobu Branch issued a 200,000 won summary order against a man identified as B, who had persistently left hateful comments about NewJeans on the online community FM Korea.

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These rulings followed an announcement made in 2024 by Team Bunnies, a fan group representing NewJeans, stating that they would pursue criminal complaints against individuals responsible for defamation, spreading false information, and posting malicious content targeting the group.

As a result of these third-party complaints filed by fans, a total of 44 individuals accused of posting malicious comments about NewJeans were referred to prosecutors without detention between September and December last year.

Legal experts note that fan-driven reporting of malicious online behavior targeting celebrities is becoming increasingly common.

Attorney Kim Tae-yeon, head of Taeyeon Law Office, explained, “In the past, protecting artists was largely seen as the agency’s responsibility. These days, fandoms are taking an active role in filing complaints.” She added that cases involving insult or defamation require the victim’s consent to proceed, but emphasized that “the legal procedures are the same whether the complaint is filed directly by the artist or through a third party, and sentencing is not affected.”

Meanwhile, NewJeans recently concluded a legal dispute with their agency ADOR over the validity of their exclusive contracts. Following the court’s decision, members Haerin, Hyein, and Hanni are confirmed to return to activities, while discussions regarding Minji’s return are reportedly ongoing.

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ADOR has notified Danielle of the termination of her exclusive contract, stating that it would be difficult to continue working with her as a member of NewJeans and as an agency artist.

The recent fines signal a growing shift toward accountability for online harassment, underscoring the increasing role of fandoms in pushing back against malicious behavior in the digital space.

Sources: News1