Popular mukbang YouTuber Tzuyang (real name Park Jung Won) is set to appear before South Korea’s National Assembly as a witness in the upcoming audit session, calling for stronger measures against "cyber wreckers”—a term used to describe online channels that exploit and spread false or sensationalized content for profit.
On September 22nd KST, the Science, ICT, Broadcasting and Communications Committee (SICT) announced that a motion to summon Tzuyang and her legal representative, attorney Kim Tae Yeon, as witnesses will be voted on during the committee’s general meeting on the 24th. If approved, Tzuyang will formally testify at the audit session on October 14.
Tzuyang was the victim of a high-profile extortion case in 2023. YouTubers Gu Jae Yeok (Lee Jun Hee), Jujak Gambyulsa (Jeon Guk Jin), and others threatened to expose fabricated allegations regarding her private life and tax evasion unless she paid them. Under pressure, she handed over 55 million won (approx. $40,000 USD).
The perpetrators were later convicted:
- Gu Jaeyeok received a 3-year prison sentence (upheld on appeal)
- Jujak Gambyulsa was sentenced to 1 year in prison, suspended for 3 years
- Co-conspirators Karakyulla and Crocodile were given suspended sentences and fines, respectively.
Attorney Kim stated, “This is not an easy position to take, especially considering Tzuyang’s personal distress. But we decided to speak out to prevent further victims and bring attention to the systemic issues that allow such abuse.”
Rep. Kim Jang Kyum of the ruling People Power Party, who requested Tzuyang’s attendance, emphasized the significance of her testimony:
“We aim to highlight the seriousness of cyber ‘wrecker’ activity and question what, if any, steps platforms like YouTube have taken to protect victims. We will also assess whether these platforms have turned a blind eye for the sake of profit and viewership.”
Tzuyang’s decision to testify is being widely regarded as a courageous move to advocate for stronger protections against digital abuse and content extortion in South Korea’s evolving media landscape.
SEE ALSO: Popular Mukbang YouTuber Tzuyang testifies at National Assembly Hearing on Cyber-Bullying
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