Cyber Wrecker YouTuber Gu Je Yeok publicly apologizes to victims, announces retirement from broadcasting

Infamous Cyber Wrecker YouTuber Gu Je Yeok (real name Lee Jun Hee), currently serving time in a detention center, publicly apologized to those who claim they were harmed by his content. He also announced plans to make all videos on his channel private and permanently cease his broadcasting activities.

On November 17, Gu Je Yeok posted two lengthy messages on his YouTube community page, stating, “I apologize to everyone who suffered harm due to my YouTube activities, regardless of the nature of my wrongdoing,” and “I have decided to make all previously uploaded videos private.” The posts were reportedly submitted by his legal representative at his request.

In the messages, he referred to a recent defamation case filed by Navy reservist YouTuber Ken Rhee, which led to additional charges against him. Gu Je Yeok explained, “I have also been prosecuted for cases filed by multiple other victims.” He added, “Even incidents that were closed years ago are being revisited with complaints and charges, and even acquaintances are being called in for investigation,” highlighting the difficulties of his current situation.

In another post, he wrote, “I have been incarcerated at Suwon Detention Center for 1 year and 2 months, so I cannot apologize to everyone individually. If they wish, I am willing to convey my apologies personally through my lawyer.” He also addressed ongoing reports about his cases, stating, “Although I want to correct false reports about my charges, including extortion and defamation, explaining my side could still harm others, so all clarifications will be presented in court with my attorney.” He maintained his denial of the extortion charges.

Gu Je Yeok is currently appealing a criminal case known as the 'Tzuyang Extortion Case,' in which he was found guilty. In September, the Seoul High Court sentenced him to three years in prison, while co-defendant Jujak Gambyulsa received one year in prison with a three-year suspended sentence.

The case involved Gu Je Yeok allegedly threatening YouTuber Tzuyang in February 2023, claiming he would reveal private matters, and extorting 55 million KRW (approx. 37,682 USD)in the process. The court recognized the extortion, citing phone call recordings that showed the defendant understood Tzuyang had no choice but to pay.

Last month, a civil court also partially held Gu Je Yeok responsible. The Seoul Central District Court ordered him to pay Tzuyang 20 million KRW (approx. 13,702 USD) in damages, noting, “The court considered the level of suffering caused by the unlawful act and the defendant’s attitude.”