South Korean Court Reduces Livestreamed Rape Convict’s Sentence

URGENT UPDATE: South Korea is reeling after the Seoul High Court announced a shocking sentence reduction for Kim, a 30-year-old male streamer convicted of raping an unconscious woman while livestreaming. The court’s decision to slash his original sentence from 8 years to just 5 years has ignited widespread outrage among the public, who are demanding accountability from the judicial system.

In May 2025, Kim was found guilty of sexually assaulting a woman who was reportedly intoxicated and drugged during the incident, which he broadcasted to 200 viewers who failed to report the crime to authorities. The initial ruling classified his actions as “for profit,” leading to the significant prison term. However, the appellate court’s justification for the reduction centers on the claim that Kim did not receive direct financial gain from the livestream.

The judges presiding over the case, Park Young Joo, Park Jae Woo, and Jung Moon Kyung, have faced severe backlash for their reasoning. They cited that one of the victims did not wish for Kim to face severe punishment, which they considered when making their decision. This reasoning has drawn heavy criticism online, with netizens expressing disbelief and anger over the light sentencing.

The public’s reaction has been immediate, with many social media users condemning the judges. Comments flooded in, stating, “The judges were part of the 200 viewers, huh?” and “This is insane.” Others called for a reevaluation of how the judicial system handles sexual crimes, echoing sentiments that the judges seem out of touch with the realities faced by victims.

The controversy surrounding this case is compounded by previous incidents of lenient sentences for sexual offenses in South Korea, contributing to a growing sentiment that the country is regressing in its treatment of such crimes. The outrage has also reignited discussions around the case of former NCT member Taeil, whose own rape conviction faced public scrutiny.

As the situation develops, advocacy groups and public figures are calling for reforms in the legal system to better protect victims and ensure that offenders face appropriate consequences. The public’s demand for justice is intensifying, prompting a critical dialogue on how sexual violence cases are adjudicated in South Korea.

This decision has sparked a national conversation about the treatment of sexual offenses within the judicial system, illustrating a troubling disconnect between legal rulings and public sentiment. The outcry is expected to continue as more voices join the call for accountability and reform.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story evolves and community responses grow louder.