Lee Yi Kyung’s Accuser Apologizes After Hoax

A German netizen admits to faking rumors about Lee Yi Kyung.
She apologizes after AI-based posts go viral online.
The scandal sparks debate over truth and responsibility.

Actor Lee Yi Kyung is facing one of the biggest storms of his career, one that began not on screen but online. Known for his witty humor and charming roles across variety shows and dramas, the actor suddenly found himself at the center of a scandal that had nothing to do with his work. What started as a seemingly random post from a foreign netizen claiming to expose his private life quickly spiraled into a full-blown media frenzy, with gossip spreading faster than facts. Days later, the entire narrative flipped upside down when the accuser admitted that it was all “just a joke.”

Yet even with that confession, the aftermath continues to haunt him. In an era where screenshots can go viral in seconds and artificial intelligence can blur the lines between truth and fabrication, Lee Yi Kyung’s ordeal stands as a warning of how digital rumors can destroy reputations before the truth even has a chance to catch up.

From a Joke to Manipulation

The case began on October 20, when a German woman known as “A” uploaded screenshots of what she claimed were private messages with Lee Yi Kyung on an online community. She accused the actor of inappropriate and explicit behavior. The posts quickly went viral, sparking outrage across platforms. Soon after, she deleted them, only to reupload, edit, and delete again, fueling suspicion that something was off.

In a surprising twist, “A” later issued a lengthy apology on her social media, admitting that her posts were AI-generated and not based on any real events.

“I didn’t know that a post which started as a joke would receive so much attention. But as I kept writing and using AI photos, I started to believe in it myself. I sincerely apologize for spreading malicious rumors about actor Lee Yi Kyung.”

She added that as a German, her Korean phrasing might sound awkward but said she would take full responsibility for her actions. Still, her apology couldn’t undo the damage, the manipulated images and messages had already spread across platforms and media outlets.

Sangyeong Entertainment, Lee Yi Kyung’s agency, issued a firm response stating that all allegations were completely false. They revealed that “A” had been sending blackmail emails and monetary requests over the past five months and had even sent a written apology earlier this year. The agency is now pursuing full legal action, not only against her but also anyone involved in spreading the false information online.

Meanwhile, Lee Yi Kyung remains active in five major shows, including Hangout with Yoo (MBC), I’m Solo (SBS Plus), Handsome Guys (tvN), Brave Detectives (E Channel), and The Return of Superman (KBS2). Broadcasters have stated they will wait for the investigation’s outcome and have no plans to alter schedules until the truth is confirmed.

BTS Jin’s Name Dragged Into It and a Divided Public

The case took an unexpected turn when the name of BTS’s Jin, a known close friend of Lee Yi Kyung, was dragged into the discussion by certain portals and anonymous accounts. This move immediately sparked outrage among BTS fans, who condemned it as an unethical attempt to sensationalize the issue further. Many argued that social media has become a space where emotions blur with assumptions and that one viral narrative can easily turn into a public witch hunt.

Furious ARMY members took to X (Twitter) to defend Jin and criticize the media’s approach.

“So what? Just ‘cause he’s his friend, does that mean he’s the same? And did they really have to drag Jin’s name into this? You dumbass people.”

“Like seriously? Using BTS’s friends against them again? Wow, impressive your obsession is next level. GROW UP 💜 Touch some grass.”

Fans emphasized that dragging Jin’s name into the scandal was pure sensationalism and had nothing to do with the actual case. They insisted that friendship should not be used to assign guilt by association. However, amid this wave of support, skepticism continued to rise among others online.

One Korean post that has since been deleted read:

“It seems like the victim was threatened with a lawsuit and agreed to a settlement, but it’s not easy for an individual to win against a company. I hope they at least got a large settlement… Lee Yi Kyung, that bastard is the problem.”

This kind of comment reflected lingering doubts about transparency in such cases and raised broader concerns about the era of AI manipulation, where truth and fabrication are increasingly difficult to distinguish.

On Pann Nate, online debates grew heated. Some commenters demanded heavy punishment for the false accuser, while others discussed the long-term impact this would have on Lee Yi Kyung’s public image.

“Even before the results are out, those attacking Lee Yi Kyung as a villain are worse than the original perpetrator.”

“If the KakaoTalk and DM messages were also manipulated, he has every right to sue. Has he done that yet?”

“If this was really an AI prank, Lee Yi Kyung must pursue legal action.”

“He built his career on a clean image. Even if everything turns out false, many people will still believe the rumors.”

This incident has become a stark reminder of how fragile the line between digital fiction and reality can be, especially in the age of generative AI. A single post can destroy a reputation built over years, and even when the accuser apologizes, the stain often remains.

Amid the flood of online opinions, many hope the case will be resolved through the courts to set an important precedent. More than just a battle between an actor and a false accuser, this controversy represents the growing danger of a digital era where fake realities can feel true and people rush to judge before verifying. Industry observers and fans alike are calling for a stronger awareness of AI ethics, accountability, and online responsibility.

Ultimately, what’s at stake is not just one person’s reputation, but the integrity of how we, as a society, discern truth in the digital age.

Source: Xports News, OSEN, My Daily