▲ This image shows the South Korean criminal court in Uijeongbu. (Yonhap)

SEOUL, Feb. 6 (Yonhap) -- A female internet broadcaster (BJ) has been sentenced to prison for blackmailing K-pop star Kim Junsu and extorting him of approximately 800 million won (US$552,300).

South Korean criminal court in Uijeongbu sentenced a woman in her 30s, identified as A, to seven years in prison on charges of extorting the Kim, also widely known as Xia, musical star and former member of K-pop group TVXQ, under the act on the aggravated punishment of specific economic crimes.

The court stated, "The defendant secretly recorded private conversations and took photos while with the victim. When their relationship became distant, she used this to extort money and valuables." It further explained, "The defendant has admitted to all the charges, and the evidence fully supports her guilt."

The court also noted, "The nature of the crime, its duration, and the method of extortion are particularly egregious. The victim suffered both financial and psychological damage and has pleaded for a severe punishment."

During the sentencing hearing last month on the 16th, prosecutors had sought a seven-year prison term for A.

In court, A stated, "I ended up here due to my involvement in an unfortunate incident. I am reflecting on my actions every day and wish to atone for my crimes so that I can return to society as a respectable member."

A was indicted and detained on charges of blackmailing Kim Junsu a total of 101 times between September 2020 and October last year, extorting approximately 8.4 billion won.

Investigations revealed that A secretly recorded private conversations with Kim and then threatened to distribute them on social media in exchange for money. 

The crime came to light after Kim's representatives filed a complaint with law enforcement, stating that he had met A under the impression that she was a nail artist and had been extorted over five years.

▲ This photo, provided by PALMTREE ISLAND, shows Kim Junsu. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

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