The Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office has requested an arrest warrant for Hoverlab CEO Kim Se Eui over allegations of defamation against South Korean actor Kim Soo Hyun.
A forensic investigation found that the YouTube channel knowingly manufactured a malicious smear campaign to drive views and revenue, and that two pieces of evidence presented by the channel were completely fraudulent.
The investigation also found that the channel's CEO and a lawyer who acted as the public legal defense for Kim Sae Ron's family were involved in the conspiracy.
Kim Soo Hyun's career was severely impacted by the allegations, which led to the termination of premium brand endorsements and a freeze on his acting projects.
The actor is currently undergoing psychiatric treatment to cope with the emotional trauma caused by the ordeal.
A judge will review the arrest warrant on May 26, 2026, to decide whether Kim Se Eui will be detained as the criminal case moves forward.
