In a landmark legal victory for truth and accountability, BTS members V (Kim Tae-hyung) and Jungkook (Jeon Jung-kook) have successfully secured a favorable ruling in their defamation lawsuit against the operator of the now-deleted YouTube channel “Taldeok Sooyongso.”
On January 23, 2026, the Seoul Western District Court’s Civil Appeals Division ordered the anonymous channel operator—identified only as “A”—to pay a total of 86 million won (approximately ₱3.4 million) in damages for spreading false and harmful content about the two global superstars.
This decision marks a significant step forward in South Korea’s ongoing battle against online misinformation—and sends a clear message: spreading lies about public figures has real consequences.
From Rumors to Rulings: A Timeline of Justice
The controversy began when Taldeok Sooyongso—a channel notorious for circulating unverified, sensationalized rumors about K-pop idols—published multiple videos containing defamatory claims about V and Jungkook. The content, lacking credible sources or evidence, quickly went viral, causing distress to the artists and their millions of fans worldwide.
In 2024, V, Jungkook, and their agency BigHit Music filed a civil lawsuit seeking 90 million won (≈₱3.6 million) in compensation for reputational harm.
The first ruling came in February 2025, awarding:
- 51 million won to BigHit Music
- 10 million won to V
- 15 million won to Jungkook
But both parties appealed—BigHit arguing the damages were too low, while the defendant contested liability altogether.
Now, after review, the appellate court has increased the total compensation to 86 million won, acknowledging the serious emotional and professional toll of the false narratives. The court also affirmed that the videos crossed the line from opinion into malicious defamation, violating South Korean civil law.
A Pattern of Harm — And Accountability
This isn’t the first time “A” has faced legal repercussions. In November 2025, the same individual was sentenced by the Incheon District Court to two years in prison (suspended for three years) for spreading false information about IVE’s Jang Won-young. That case also resulted in a 210 million won fine (≈₱8.4 million) and 120 hours of mandatory community service under South Korea’s Information and Communications Network Act.
Though the Taldeok Sooyongso channel has since been deleted, its legacy lives on as a cautionary tale—one frequently cited in national conversations about digital ethics, creator responsibility, and the mental health of public figures.
As one Pinoy ARMY commented online:
“They thought anonymity meant immunity. But karma—and the law—caught up.”
BTS Moves Forward: New Album & Manila Return
Even as they defend their dignity in court, V, Jungkook, and the rest of BTS are focused on the future.
Just days before the ruling, on January 19, BigHit Music unveiled the cover of BTS’s fifth full-length album: ARIRANG—a powerful nod to Korea’s most iconic folk song, symbolizing resilience, longing, and unity. The minimalist grayscale design features the title in bold uppercase letters, hinting at a mature, reflective sound.
The album drops globally on March 20, 2026, across all streaming platforms, with physical editions available at select retailers.
And for Filipino fans? There’s even more to celebrate: BTS is officially returning to the Philippines as part of their world tour, with two concerts scheduled for March 13 and 14, 2027 at the Philippine Arena.
After years of separation, service, and slander, this era feels like a true homecoming—not just geographically, but emotionally.
Final Thoughts: Truth Wins
V and Jungkook’s legal victory isn’t just about money—it’s about respect, integrity, and setting a precedent. In an age where anyone can upload a video and ruin lives with a single click, this ruling reminds us that words have weight, and creators must be accountable.
To all ARMYs: keep supporting your idols with love, not rumors. And when lies surface, remember—the truth always echoes louder.
#BTSARIRANG #VJungkookWin #JusticeForBTS #BTSManila2027 #ARMYAgainstHate
Follow BTS Superheroes for verified news, thoughtful commentary, and unwavering support for the world’s most beloved boy band—from Quezon City to Seoul.
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