Song Ha-yoon's Schoolmate Refereed to Prosecution Over Defamation

Police Refer Former Schoolmate of Actress Song Ha-yoon to Prosecution Over Defamation

Police have officially referred a former schoolmate of South Korean actress Song Ha-yoon to the prosecution following a months-long investigation into allegations of school violence. The referral, which took place on June 16, marks a significant shift in a legal dispute that began in 2024. The former schoolmate, identified in reports as “A,” faces charges including defamation, obstruction of business, and intimidation under the Information and Communications Network Act.

Background of the Allegations

The controversy originated in April 2024, when A appeared on programs such as JTBC’s “Crime Squad(also referred to asCase Team Leader”) to allege that Song Ha-yoon had committed acts of school violence against them in 2004. A claimed that while they were a second-year high school student, Song—who was a senior—summoned them to a playground and slapped them for approximately an hour and a half. Additionally, A alleged that Song was involved in a separate group assault and was subsequently forced to transfer schools as a disciplinary measure. Song Ha-yoon, 39, whose acting credits include Fight for My Way, Marry My Husband, and Band of Sisters, has consistently denied these claims. Through her legal representatives at the law firm Jijeum (also cited as Gi-eum), the actress stated that she had never met A, had never committed any act of violence against them, and was never forcibly transferred due to school violence.

The Legal Investigation Process

The case has undergone several procedural stages. In July 2024, Song’s legal team filed criminal charges against A, submitting evidence they claimed proved the falsity of the allegations. This evidence included notarized statements, public institutional records, and testimony from a former high school homeroom teacher, which contradicted A’s claims regarding the forced transfer. However, Song’s camp filed an official objection to this decision. Following the objection, the prosecution requested a supplementary investigation. After roughly three months of additional review, the police reversed their initial stance, concluding that the allegations were unsubstantiated and referring A to the prosecution.

Conflicting Claims on Investigation Status

A point of contention has emerged regarding the accuracy of information shared with the public. A has pointed to the February police notification as evidence of their innocence. Song’s legal representatives have formally disputed this, clarifying that the February decision was reached prior to the mandatory supplementary investigation. They have accused A of spreading false information regarding the investigation’s progress to mislead public opinion, noting that they are considering further legal action to address this behavior.

Current Status and Next Steps

As the case moves forward, Song Ha-yoon has requested patience as the legal process concludes. In a statement released on July 16, 2026, the actress expressed regret for the public concern caused by the matter. I am apologetic for unintentionally causing worry and distress to many people, Song stated through her legal counsel. “I had been quietly waiting for the prosecution’s final judgment regarding the ongoing investigation, but since information different from the facts was reported again, I have decided to correct at least the basic facts. I would be grateful if you could wait just a little longer until the final results are released.” The matter remains under review by the prosecution. Both parties continue to uphold their original positions as they await the final legal determination.