On the afternoon of October 17, SM Entertainment released an official statement and revealed their intention to sue threats and defamation targeting boy group RIIZE.
Below is the full statement from SM Entertainment:
“Hello, this is SM Entertainment.
We would like to update you on the legal measures we are taking in response to the rights violations involving RIIZE members (Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Sohee, Anton).
We have been collecting malicious posts and comments, including threats, defamation, and insults aimed at RIIZE members, through fan reports and our own monitoring. We are focusing lawsuits on individuals who continue to spread false information on certain platforms.
In particular, we have referred some individuals to the prosecution, including those who impersonated acquaintances of RIIZE members on Instagram and spread false information, as well as those involved in confirmed illegal acts. We are responding firmly in line with our principles and will provide updates on the progress of these cases.
Fabricating baseless information or spreading false rumors that damage someone’s reputation, as well as creating malicious content by editing or altering an artist’s image, are clear illegal acts.
We will continue to take strong action, both domestically and internationally, against those who post malicious content or videos targeting RIIZE on platforms such as Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube. We reiterate that we will not offer any settlement or leniency, so please be careful to avoid getting involved in these unlawful activities.
We sincerely thank all the fans who have shown unwavering support and encouragement for RIIZE. We ask for your continued cooperation in reporting any illegal activities involving RIIZE that you may come across.
Thank you.”
In addition, the agency also published a similar statement regarding former RIIZE member Seunghan, showing their intention to protect the male idol despite his departure from the group after a personal life controversy.
On other hand, Seunghan debuted with RIIZE in September of last year, but in November of that year, he went on an indefinite hiatus due to personal issues. He became the subject of controversy after a photo of him kissing a woman was circulated.
RIIZE was active as a 6-member group for a while, but Seunghan’s return was announced in October. However, due to strong opposition from fans, who even sent mourning flowers to SM Entertainment, the agency backed down and canceled Seunghan’s return to the team.
Source: Daum (1) (2)
