Police launch an investigation into a Korean influencer who went around asking men to touch her breasts

Police in Seoul have launched an investigation into Ah In, a social media influencer, who took to the streets of Hongdae wearing only a cardboard box and invited men to touch her breasts.

On October 23, Mapo Police Station announced they're investigating Ah In for performing acts of public indecency, which carries potential penalties including up to one-year imprisonment and a fine of up to 5 million KRW (3,723 USD).

According to allegations, Ah In permitted passers-by to touch her body through holes in the box while she was in public. The incident was videotaped and subsequently uploaded on social media platforms, triggering widespread outcry.

Such actions fall under Article 245, known as 'Public Obscenity' of the Criminal Act, an offense recognized when an obscene act is performed in a public place, causing viewers to feel sexual discomfort or shame. Ah In’s acquaintances, who were involved in the incident, are also being investigated on similar charges.

Ah In first triggered public attention when she appeared on the Apgujeong streets, having 'Angel Box Girl' written on the cardboard box. In an interview with a newspaper on October 14, she revealed her work as a Korean AV (adult video) actress and model along with past experiences working in a karaoke bar.

Justifying her public act, Ah In argued, “I find it odd that when a man takes off his shirt in public, it’s considered normal, but when a woman does the same, she's punished. This act is a performative challenge to such double standards."

Further, expressing indifference toward strangers touching her breasts, she said, “It doesn’t bother me. I am proud of my breasts and I wish to flaunt it. I don’t want breast-touching to be stigmatized or seen as a taboo.”