A sasaeng fan who unlawfully entered NewJeans’ dorm and stole personal items has been sentenced to prison.
On June 11th KST, the Seoul Western District Court’s Criminal Division 9 (Judge Kim Min Jeong presiding) held a trial for Defendant A, who faces charges of trespassing and theft. Prosecutors requested a 10-month prison sentence.
A was found to have illegally entered NewJeans’ residence in Yongsan-gu, Seoul on December 18th of last year. Upon discovering that the door was open, they returned on December 21st and stole items including a clothes hanger and a banner. A also filmed the dorm and uploaded the footage online. The residence was unoccupied at the time, as NewJeans had vacated it earlier that month after announcing their contract termination with ADOR.
A’s legal representative admitted to all charges, stating, “The defendant deserves criticism. However, they are remorseful and have cooperated fully with the investigation,” and requested leniency. The lawyer also emphasized that this was the defendant’s first offense, adding, “Given their usual conduct, the risk of reoffending is low. They did not believe taking the items after the group had moved out would constitute theft.”
During the trial, A bowed their head and read from a prepared note:
“I made a terrible mistake due to a reckless decision. I deeply apologize to the artist I admired and to the agency for causing pain,” they said tearfully.
They shared that they have been writing daily letters of reflection and pleaded, “Please give me a chance to pursue my dream of becoming a civil servant. I will live responsibly while taking care of my ailing mother.” A’s mother, who was present in court, also broke down in tears.
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