Lee Ji-sung and Cha Yu-ram couple, illegal interior construction controversy expands into legal dispute

Best-selling author Lee Ji-sung and billiards player Cha Yu-ram are currently embroiled in a legal battle regarding illegal interior construction work that took place in their Gangnam apartment in September 2022.

The couple undertook unauthorized renovations that involved changing the internal structure of the apartment, which resulted in serious complaints from neighboring residents.

The noise measured from the apartment below was recorded at 92 dB, which is over 100 times the permitted level for general construction sites. Some units claimed to have suffered physical damages such as leaks and cracks.

Court rules, “No evidence for Lee Ji-sung’s claims,” loses first instance ruling

According to a report by Herald Economy, the author filed a lawsuit against the neighboring residents but lost in the first instance.

The media reported that resident A remarked in a group chat involving those related to the construction, "There should be an agreement regarding restoration and compensation for damages."

A also posted an official notice in the apartment complex stating, "If an amicable solution is not possible, we will take legal action and disclose this to the media."

In response, the author claimed he was threatened and that his work was obstructed as the neighbors prevented construction materials from being transported, citing the elevator's old condition, leading him to file a police complaint against the neighbors.

The residents also filed countercharges against the author for fraud, obstruction of business, and defamation.

The 42nd Civil Division of the Seoul Central District Court (presided over by Judge Jeong Hyun-seok) dismissed all of the author’s claims in September of last year, ruling that he should bear the costs of the lawsuit.

The court pointed out, "The commencement of construction by the author’s side was illegal," and noted that noise levels of 92 dB were recorded in the unit below, and that some units experienced damage such as broken window frames and shattered glass.

Regarding the compensation issue, the court acknowledged, "It is recognized that A mentioned a compensation amount of 180 million won for all units and suggested that they settle for just 10 million won."

However, the court stated, "There is no evidence to suggest that A engaged in threats or extortion," highlighting that "Given the circumstances, A was in a position to demand compensation for damages caused by the construction."

Furthermore, it was clarified that the proposal of 10 million won seemed to be an offer made by A to settle the dispute based on actual expenses incurred, rather than a form of threat.

As for the mention of 180 million won, the court stated, "It was merely for the specific amount regarding damage compensation," explaining that A was just suggesting compensation terms by offering an example of 20,000 won per day over 60 days of construction per unit.

Concerning the accusation of defaming the author’s character through the official notice, the court concluded, "It is difficult to determine that the content stated in the notice was false," also noting that "It cannot be regarded as illegal since it was for the public interest."

Appeal in progress… Third trial scheduled for the 15th of next month

The author’s side has appealed the first instance ruling, claiming there was a misunderstanding of the law. The second instance trial is currently ongoing at the Seoul High Court and has been held twice so far.

The third trial is scheduled to be held at 2:50 PM on the 15th of next month in courtroom 413 of the Seoul High Court.

Image source: instagram 'ejisung1', ytn, reference photos for understanding the article / gettyimagesbank