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Members of BTS perform at “BTS Comeback Live: Arirang” at Gwanghwamun Square in Seoul on March 21. (Pool Photo) |
[Alpha Biz= Ellie Kim] SEOUL, June 16 — South Korean police said they will file a damages lawsuit against a man in his 50s who posted an online arson threat ahead of a concert by BTS.
Authorities announced on June 15 that they plan to seek 2.28 million won ($1,600) in compensation from the individual, who posted a comment on social media on March 19 — two days before the concert — threatening to throw a gasoline-filled bottle at the event.
The man was previously convicted of public intimidation and, on May 15, was sentenced to 10 months in prison with a two-year suspended term.
Police said they are also pursuing damages claims against individuals who issued false bomb threats via emails and online posts targeting locations such as Gangnam Station, Busan Station and government facilities. In one case, authorities plan to seek 31.91 million won in damages.
The move is part of broader efforts to curb public threats that result in the misuse of emergency resources. Police have increasingly filed civil lawsuits alongside criminal charges to recover costs and deter similar incidents.
Officials said they will continue to actively pursue compensation claims to prevent waste of public resources and reduce public anxiety.
Alphabiz Ellie Kim 인턴기자(press@alphabiz.co.kr)
