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South Korean actor Lee Yi-kyung’s agency announced Tuesday it is preparing legal action against individuals spreading false information about the actor following his recent rise to prominence in the Netflix hit series “Lovely Runner.”
HB Entertainment, which represents Lee, released a statement addressing the surge of unsubstantiated claims circulating online. “We have confirmed numerous instances of defamation, including the spread of false information and malicious rumors about our artist Lee Yi-kyung,” the agency said in its official statement.
The agency emphasized it would pursue legal action without leniency against those responsible for damaging Lee’s reputation. “We are currently collecting evidence and will take strong legal measures against all individuals involved in spreading falsehoods,” the statement continued.
This development comes amid Lee’s breakthrough international success in “Lovely Runner,” where his portrayal of Sun-jae, a devoted fan who supports the female lead’s journey, has earned him widespread acclaim. The romantic drama has become one of Netflix’s most-watched Korean series this year, propelling Lee to new levels of global recognition.
Industry analysts note that such defamation issues often accompany sudden fame, particularly in South Korea’s highly competitive entertainment landscape. “When actors experience rapid popularity growth, they become targets for various forms of online harassment,” explained Kim Min-ho, a media studies professor at Seoul National University. “The legal system has been increasingly responsive to these cases, recognizing the real damage done to performers’ careers.”
HB Entertainment’s statement also addressed the emotional impact on Lee, noting that “these malicious attacks have caused significant distress to our artist during what should be a celebratory period in his career.”
The 34-year-old actor has been active in the industry for over a decade, appearing in numerous television dramas including “Go Back Couple” and “Welcome to Waikiki.” However, his role in “Lovely Runner” has marked a definitive turning point, transforming him from a familiar face in Korean entertainment to an international star.
Korean entertainment law has strengthened protections for artists in recent years, with precedents set by successful legal actions against online defamation. These cases typically involve financial penalties and, in more serious instances, criminal charges for perpetrators.
Digital rights experts point out that the global reach of streaming platforms like Netflix has complicated these legal matters. “When defamation crosses borders, enforcement becomes challenging,” noted Park Ji-won, a digital rights attorney based in Seoul. “However, Korean agencies have become increasingly sophisticated in tracking and addressing these issues, even when they originate overseas.”
The Korean entertainment industry has seen similar cases with other actors who achieved sudden international fame through streaming platforms. Many agencies now employ specialized legal teams focused solely on protecting their artists’ reputations in the digital space.
Lee’s representatives have requested fans to report any instances of defamation they encounter online, creating a coordinated effort to address the issue. “We appreciate the support and concern from fans who want to protect our artist,” the agency stated.
Production sources for “Lovely Runner” indicated that filming for the series concluded earlier this year, with Lee currently reviewing offers for new projects following the show’s success.
Entertainment industry observers suggest that such legal actions serve both to protect individual artists and to send a broader message about professional standards in the era of social media. “Agencies are increasingly willing to take public stands against online harassment,” said entertainment journalist Choi Hye-jin. “It reflects a maturing industry that recognizes talent protection as essential to sustainability.”
HB Entertainment concluded its statement by affirming its commitment to Lee’s well-being: “We will continue to support our artist so he can focus on his creative work without undue distress from these malicious attacks.”
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16 Comments
This situation highlights the need for better online accountability and consequences for those who engage in the spread of misinformation. I hope the legal action serves as a deterrent for others.
It’s unfortunate that false claims and malicious rumors are being spread about this talented actor. I’m glad his agency is taking legal action to protect his reputation. Actors deserve to have their privacy and dignity respected.
I agree, legal action is warranted in cases of defamation. Spreading misinformation can be very damaging to an actor’s career.
I wonder what kind of evidence the agency is collecting to support their legal action. It will be interesting to see how this case plays out and what the consequences are for the individuals responsible.
That’s a good point. The agency will need to present solid evidence to make a successful case against the false claims.
I’m glad to see the agency taking proactive steps to protect their client’s reputation. Actors should not have to deal with such damaging falsehoods, and I hope the legal action sets a precedent.
Agreed. Actors deserve the same respect and privacy as any other public figure, and agencies should be vigilant in defending their clients.
Fans should be celebrating Lee Yi-kyung’s success in the hit Netflix series, not making up false stories about him. I hope the legal action sends a strong message and puts a stop to this unacceptable behavior.
Well said. Actors work hard to entertain us, the least we can do is show them respect and appreciation.
I’m curious to know more about the specific false claims that were made. What kind of information was being spread, and how did it damage Lee Yi-kyung’s reputation?
That’s a good point. More details on the nature of the false claims would help understand the situation better.
It’s good to see the agency taking a firm stance against the false claims. Spreading misinformation online can have serious consequences, and I’m glad they’re taking this seriously.
As a fan of Lee Yi-kyung’s work, I’m disappointed to hear about these false claims. I hope the legal action is successful in protecting his reputation and privacy.
I agree, fans should respect the privacy and dignity of the actors they admire. Spreading rumors is never acceptable.
This is a cautionary tale about the dangers of the internet and the ease with which misinformation can spread. I hope the legal action helps set the record straight and deter future incidents.
It’s important for agencies to take a strong stance against defamation and false claims. Maintaining the integrity of an actor’s public image is crucial for their career and well-being.