Johnny Somali’s disruptive livestreams lead to criminal charges in South Korea

Controversial streamer Johnny Somali’s disruptive antics have finally caught up with him, as multiple charges have been filed against him in South Korea following a series of incidents that happened since his arrival in the country in September.

Somali, whose real name is Ramsey Khalid Ismael, was indicted without detention and charged with obstruction of business for a chaotic convenience store livestream he conducted on October 17.

Screengrab from Johnny Somali's video posted on October 17

During the stream he was playing loud music in a convenience store, purposely spilling ramen, throwing noodles at the wall, and fighting with a female employee by shouting sexist comments at her.

Obstruction of business comes with a maximum penalty of five years in jail. Other than that, Somali was facing charges including defacing a monument meant to memorialize victims of sexual slavery in World War II and alleged drug use – which comes with a maximum penalty of ten years in jail. The streamer is also not allowed to leave the country.

The streamer is also being sued by Korean IRL streamer “bongbong” for using deepfake AI to depict him kissing her. Although she has decided to stop pursuing legal action, the Korean government may prosecute him for it instead.

A bill that passed on September 26, 2024, stipulates that those who possess sexually explicit deepfakes of other individuals may face up to seven years in prison and a fine of around $22,000 USD.

Social media users have shared their reactions to this news, with many expressing relief and feeling that the charges against Somali are deserved for his actions.

It is worth noting that in the past, he has faced trials in both Japan and Israel, where he only received what others have called a “slap on the wrist.”

 

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