A Korean YouTuber who spread false information claiming that 37 dismembered corpses were discovered in South Korea has come under police investigation. The influencer, known as Debo-chan and based in Japan, reportedly told his 960,000 subscribers that the claims were “true” but said he would delete all videos related to Korea after authorities intervened.
On November 5, Debo-chan uploaded a video titled “Going to Be Investigated by Korean Police” on his channel. He insisted that he only shared “comments from Koreans about incidents that were already reported in the news” and expressed frustration over media reports portraying him as having deliberately fabricated lies to deceive Japanese viewers.
“I did not spread false news with malicious intent to tarnish Korea’s image,” Debo-chan said. “It’s true that there have been cases of bodies being found near rivers recently.” He added, “I just wanted to show various perspectives. But it seems that this is now an issue in Korea, so I’ve decided to delete all videos related to Korea, including those criticizing the country. I will also go to the police station for questioning.”
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Cyber Investigation Unit confirmed that they would swiftly investigate the YouTuber. The controversy centers on a video Debo-chan uploaded on October 22, titled “Serious Issues of Murder and Organ Trafficking by Chinese Criminals Entering Korea Without a Visa.” The video included unverified claims, including that “37 dismembered corpses were found in South Korea” and that “150 cases are under confidential investigation,” which quickly spread across online communities and Japanese platforms, stirring public concern.
Authorities emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “This act is considered a serious crime. We will verify the facts and take action in accordance with relevant laws.” The police plan to confirm Debo-chan’s nationality and location and are reviewing charges under the Telecommunications Business Act. Officials cited the potential for his disinformation to cause public anxiety, disrupt society, and damage Korea’s national image, as well as negatively affect foreign visits and investment.
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