In a developing scandal that has shaken the world of football, South Korean soccer player Hwang Ui Jo is facing serious legal repercussions. According to a statement from the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency on Monday, Hwang has been booked not only for the alleged illegal filming of a sexual encounter but also for inflicting secondary harm on the victim by disclosing her personal details.
Hwang is the ex-boyfriend of T-ARA star Hyomin. | Reuters
The controversy surrounding Hwang Ui Jo, a prominent figure in international soccer, first came to light in June of the previous year. It was then that indecent photos and videos involving Hwang and several women were unexpectedly released on Instagram. Among these, one particular incident has drawn significant attention: a victim claims that Hwang recorded their sexual encounter without her consent.
The two broke up in 2022, after a few months of dating. | @hyominnn/Instagram
The case took a more complex turn when Hwang, in his defense, issued a statement last November. He maintained that the video in question was filmed consensually.
The leaked videos were filmed after reaching agreement.
— Hwang’s legal representative
However — in what many critics have deemed an act of indiscretion — he revealed certain details about the woman involved, noting that she was a celebrity, frequently appearing on television, and was even married. Hwang’s words, according to experts, may constitute an act of secondary harm as it potentially hints at the identity of the victim.
Norwich forward Hwang Ui-jo has been suspended from the South Korean national team after an allegation was made that he illegally filmed a sex tape with his ex-girlfriend.
(Source: Sun Sport) pic.twitter.com/HtVGOzRZ2m
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) November 30, 2023
Under the Sexual Violence Punishment Act, revealing a victim’s personal information is a serious offense. The recent booking of Hwang and one of his lawyers under this provision underscores the gravity of the situation. The law is clear in its intent to protect victims’ identities and personal details, and breaching this can lead to severe legal consequences.
Hwang is a key member of the South Korean national team. | Girondins4Ever
The police have been actively pursuing the case, with Hwang having been privately questioned last Friday on the charges of illegal filming. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency official indicated that further questioning might be necessary as the investigation unfolds.
| KoreaTimes
The added charges of secondary harm against Hwang highlight the importance of respecting and safeguarding the identities and personal information of victims in such cases.
