BTS’s V and Jungkook fail to reach settlement with Sojang operator in defamation lawsuit

BigHit Music and BTS members V and Jungkook have failed to reach a settlement with YouTube channel Sojang’s operator (A) in their ongoing defamation lawsuit.

On July 21 KST, the 1st Mediation Division of the Seoul Western District Court held a mediation session for the appeal in the damages suit filed last March by V, Jungkook, and BigHit Music against A. However, the parties were unable to reach an agreement, resulting in a non-settlement, meaning the regular appeal trial will now resume.

A had uploaded at least 23 videos on the now-deleted Sojang YouTube channel, targeting various celebrities and influencers with defamatory or insulting content. A is currently facing both civil and criminal proceedings for defamation and insult.

In March 2023, BigHit Music filed a damages claim for 90 million KRW (approximately 65,000 USD) against A. On February 14 of this year, the court ordered A to pay:

• 51 million KRW to BigHit Music,
• 10 million KRW to V,
• 15 million KRW to Jungkook,
  plus additional interest.

However, both sides appealed the ruling, and the case continues.