Seoul, South Korea – A 59-year-old woman named Cho has been sentenced to one year in prison, with a probationary period of two years, for stalking Jung Eunji, a member of the popular Korean girl group Apink and an actress. The Seoul Central District Court handed down the sentence, ordering Cho to be placed under the supervision of a probation officer. In addition to the prison term, Cho must pay a fine of 100,000 Korean won (approximately $75 USD), complete 120 hours of community service, and attend 40 hours of educational courses focused on preventing repeated crimes related to stalking.
The stalking began in March 2020 when Cho sent a package to Jung Eunji’s home accompanied by a disturbing message, expressing a desire to become her maid and cohabitation partner. Two months later, Cho followed Jung Eunji to her hair and makeup shop on a motorcycle, further intensifying her stalking behavior.
Cho’s behavior escalated in April and July 2021 when she was found lurking near Jung Eunji’s apartment. The police issued a strong warning to her at the time, and Cho even reached out to Eunji’s agency, promising to refrain from contacting her. However, over the next five months, Cho continued to torment Jung Eunji with numerous messages on Instagram DMs and Bubble, a messaging platform. The relentless stalking caused significant mental and emotional distress for the victim, prompting her to announce in December 2021 that she would be discontinuing her Bubble service.
The Seoul Central District Court noted that despite the severe impact on Jung Eunji’s well-being, Cho showed no remorse and denied the crimes. The court characterized Cho’s behavior as a complete lack of reflection and empathy for the victim’s suffering.
This case highlights the serious consequences of stalking and the importance of taking swift legal action against perpetrators. Stalking not only violates personal boundaries but can also cause severe psychological harm to the victims. The court’s decision to impose a prison sentence, probation, and other penalties aims to send a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
Stalking is a widespread issue globally, affecting individuals from all walks of life. It is vital for society to prioritize measures to prevent and address stalking, providing support for victims and holding perpetrators accountable. By continuing to raise awareness and implementing stricter legal measures, we can strive to create a safer environment for everyone.