Seoul, December 09, 2025
A South Korean woman, identified as Yang, was sentenced to four years in prison by a Seoul court for blackmailing football star Son Heung-min through false claims of pregnancy and demanding $200,000 to remain silent. The extortion scheme unfolded in 2024, prompting legal action after threats to publicize fabricated allegations.
Details of the Conviction
Yang was convicted of extortion after sending Son a fake ultrasound image to substantiate her false pregnancy claim. She threatened to expose the allegation publicly if Son did not pay the demanded sum. The court found that the woman used the extorted $200,000 to purchase luxury goods and designer items.
Alongside Yang, two accomplices—her partner and another co-conspirator—were each sentenced to two years in prison for attempted blackmail. All defendants have been in custody since May 2025. The footballer involved reported the blackmail attempts to the police, which led to the investigation and prosecution.
Impact on the Victim and Court Proceedings
The court acknowledged the significant emotional distress Son experienced due to the false claims and the case’s public exposure. Son provided testimony in a closed hearing to protect his privacy during the trial process.
Legal and Societal Implications
This case highlights the South Korean judiciary’s stance on protecting public figures from fraudulent coercion and blackmail schemes. By imposing strict sentences, the Seoul court reinforced legal protections against exploitative actions leveraging false allegations for financial gain.
The ruling serves as a cautionary precedent emphasizing accountability and the consequences of extortion attempts aimed at exploiting reputations in South Korea’s legal system. It underscores ongoing efforts to safeguard individuals against malicious and misleading claims in public and legal domains.