Archive · 19 Sep 2025
Court Fines Social Media User for Defaming Virtual K-Pop Group
Imagine a virtual boyband called Plave that is very popular in South Korea.
Someone made mean comments about them online, like saying the performers behind the avatars could be ugly.
The group's agency took the person to court.
The court decided the comments were hurtful and ordered the person to pay a fine.
This is a big deal because it's one of the first times a court has dealt with someone saying bad things about virtual idols.
The agency is appealing to seek a larger sum for damages.
A South Korean court fined a social media user for defaming the virtual K-pop group, Plave.
Plave debuted in 2023 and is a successful virtual K-pop group.
The defendant posted derogatory remarks online in July 2024.
The court ruled insults aimed at the avatar can be attacks on the individual.
The agency Vlast is appealing the 500,000 won fine, seeking a larger amount.
- Who
- A social media user, and the virtual K-pop group Plave.
- What
- A South Korean court fined a social media user for defaming the virtual K-pop group, Plave.
- When
- The posts were made in July 2024 and the ruling came out in September 2025.
- Where
- South Korea
- Why
- The court ruled that comments were defamatory attacks on the individual performers.
- Group Name
- Plave
- Debut Year
- 2023
- Defendant's Penalty
- 500,000 won
- Agency
- Vlast